A nurse is monitoring a patient who is receiving a blood transfusion.


Which of the following symptoms should the nurse report to the charge nurse as a sign of an allergic blood transfusion reaction?

Choice A rationale:

Paralytic ileus is a common postoperative complication that occurs when the normal movement of the intestines (peristalsis) is slowed or stopped. This can lead to a buildup of gas and fluids in the intestines, causing abdominal distention, nausea, vomiting, and constipation. The absence of bowel sounds, abdominal distention, and the inability to pass flatus are all classic signs of paralytic ileus.

Here are some of the factors that can contribute to paralytic ileus: Manipulation of the intestines during surgery

Anesthesia

Pain medications, especially opioids Electrolyte imbalances

Dehydration

Underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or kidney disease Treatment for paralytic ileus typically involves:

Resting the bowel by not eating or drinking anything by mouth

Using a nasogastric (NG) tube to suction out gas and fluids from the stomach Providing intravenous (IV) fluids and electrolytes

Encouraging early ambulation

Using medications to stimulate bowel movement, such as metoclopramide or erythromycin

Choice B rationale:

Incisional infection is an infection of the surgical wound. It would typically present with redness, warmth, swelling, and pain at the incision site. The patient may also have a fever. While incisional infections can occur after abdominal surgery, they are not typically associated with the absence of bowel sounds, abdominal distention, and the inability to pass flatus.

Choice C rationale:

Fecal impaction is a severe form of constipation in which a large, hard mass of stool becomes trapped in the rectum. It can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and difficulty passing stool. However, it is not typically associated with the absence of bowel sounds or abdominal distention.

Choice D rationale:

Health care-associated Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) is a bacterial infection that can cause severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and cramping. It is often associated with antibiotic use. While C. difficile can occur after abdominal surgery, it is not typically associated with the absence of bowel sounds, abdominal distention, and the inability to pass flatus.

Choice A rationale:

Respects patient autonomy: This response directly addresses the patient's preference and demonstrates respect for their right to make decisions about their own care. It empowers the patient by offering a solution that aligns with their stated wishes.

Promotes patient comfort: By accommodating the patient's preference, the nurse can help to create a more comfortable and trusting environment, which can lead to better patient outcomes.

Protects patient privacy: Personal hygiene care often involves exposure of sensitive body parts and can be a source of embarrassment or anxiety for some patients. Ensuring that the patient is comfortable with the gender of the caregiver helps to protect their privacy and dignity.

Demonstrates cultural sensitivity: While not explicitly stated in the question, it's possible that the patient's preference is rooted in cultural or religious beliefs. Being sensitive to these factors is essential for providing culturally competent care.

Provides a practical solution: This response offers a concrete solution that can be easily implemented, ensuring that the patient's needs are met in a timely and efficient manner.

Choice B rationale:

May be perceived as intrusive: Asking the patient to explain their reasoning could make them feel uncomfortable or defensive. It's important to respect the patient's right to privacy and not pressure them to disclose personal information.

Could delay care: While understanding the patient's reasons may be helpful in some cases, it's not essential for providing appropriate care. Delaying care to gather this information could potentially compromise the patient's well-being.

Choice C rationale:

Dismisses patient's concerns: This response fails to acknowledge the patient's preference and could make them feel unheard or disrespected. It's important to validate the patient's feelings and concerns, even if you don't fully understand them.

May not address underlying issues: The patient's preference may be based on factors that are not related to the AP's competence or experience. Simply stating the AP's qualifications is unlikely to resolve the patient's concerns.

Choice D rationale:

Defers responsibility: While informing the charge nurse may be necessary for logistical reasons, it's important for the nurse to take ownership of the situation and address the patient's concerns directly. Deferring to another staff member could make the patient feel like their concerns are not being taken seriously.

May delay care: Involving additional staff members could potentially delay the patient's care. It's more efficient to address the patient's preference directly, if possible.