The nurse caring for a client receiving a transfusion notes that 15 minutes after the infusion of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) has begun, the client is having difficulty breathing and complains of severe chest tightness. What is the most appropriate initial action for the nurse to take?
Remove the client's IV access.
Assess the client's chest sounds and vital signs
Notify the client's healthcare provider.
Stop the transfusion immediately.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Remove the client's IV access:
Removing the client's IV access is not the most appropriate initial action when a client experiences difficulty breathing and severe chest tightness during a transfusion. While it's important to discontinue the infusion, the immediate priority is to stop the transfusion itself to prevent further reaction and assess the client's condition.
B. Assess the client's chest sounds and vital signs:
This choice is the correct answer. After stopping the transfusion, the nurse should assess the client's respiratory status by listening to chest sounds for any wheezing or crackles, as well as checking vital signs such as oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and heart rate. These assessments help evaluate the severity of the reaction and guide further interventions.
C. Notify the client's healthcare provider:
Notifying the healthcare provider is an essential step, but it typically follows the immediate action of stopping the transfusion and assessing the client's condition. The healthcare provider needs to be informed promptly about the client's condition, transfusion reaction, and the actions taken for further guidance and orders.
D. Stop the transfusion immediately:
This is the initial and most critical action when a client experiences signs of a transfusion reaction such as difficulty breathing and severe chest tightness. Stopping the transfusion promptly helps prevent the reaction from worsening and allows for immediate assessment and intervention to ensure client safety.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","F"]
Explanation
A. History of smoking:
Smoking is a well-established risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). Cigarette smoke contains harmful chemicals that damage blood vessels, promote the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, and increase the risk of blood clots, all of which can lead to CAD, heart attacks, and strokes.
B. Body mass index (BMI) of 20:
While obesity and elevated BMI are risk factors for CAD, a BMI of 20 falls within the healthy weight range for most adults. However, it's important to note that BMI alone may not fully capture an individual's overall cardiovascular risk, as factors like body composition, waist circumference, diet, and physical activity level also contribute to heart health.
C. History of diabetes:
Diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes, is a significant risk factor for CAD. Elevated blood sugar levels over time can damage blood vessels (atherosclerosis), increase inflammation, and contribute to other metabolic abnormalities that raise the risk of heart disease, including heart attacks and peripheral vascular disease.
D. Family history of coronary heart disease:
Having a family history of coronary heart disease (CHD) or premature heart attacks (before age 55 in men or before age 65 in women) increases the risk of developing CAD. Genetic factors play a role in the development of heart disease, and individuals with close relatives affected by CHD have a higher likelihood of developing similar conditions.
E. Female gender:
While gender can influence cardiovascular risk factors and presentation, being female alone is not considered a specific risk factor for CAD. However, women may have different risk profiles or risk factors compared to men, such as hormonal influences (e.g., menopause) and unique symptom presentation for heart disease.
F. Age greater than 45 years for men:
Advancing age is a significant risk factor for CAD, especially for men. Men aged 45 years and older are at increased risk compared to younger age groups due to factors such as the cumulative effects of risk factors over time, hormonal changes, and age-related changes in blood vessels and heart function.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Whether the client and involved family members understand dietary changes and the role of nutrition:
This assessment is important as diet plays a crucial role in managing coronary artery disease (CAD) and preventing further complications. Understanding dietary changes, such as reducing saturated fats, sodium intake, and incorporating heart-healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, is essential. Nutrition education can help clients and their families make informed choices that promote heart health and improve overall well-being. However, while understanding dietary changes is significant, it may not be the most critical determination during the initial intake assessment, especially when compared to immediate concerns like recognizing acute cardiac symptoms.
B. Whether the client and involved family members understand the role of genetics in the etiology of the disease:
Understanding the genetic factors contributing to coronary artery disease can provide valuable insights into the client's risk factors and potential hereditary predispositions. This knowledge can help guide screening, prevention, and management strategies tailored to the client's specific genetic profile. While genetic factors are important considerations in CAD, they typically require a more detailed evaluation and may not be the primary focus during the initial intake assessment, especially compared to immediate concerns related to symptom recognition and response.
C. Whether the client and involved family members are able to recognize symptoms of an acute cardiac problem and respond appropriately:
This is a crucial assessment because recognizing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, sweating, and arm or jaw pain is essential in identifying a potential heart attack or unstable angina. Knowing when to seek emergency medical assistance and how to respond appropriately can significantly impact outcomes and reduce the risk of complications. Immediate response to acute cardiac symptoms is a critical aspect of CAD management, making it a top priority during the intake assessment.
D. Whether the client and involved family members understand the importance of social support and community agencies:
Social support and community resources play a valuable role in CAD management, providing emotional support, access to education programs, rehabilitation services, and other supportive resources. Understanding the importance of social support and knowing how to access community agencies can enhance the client's overall well-being and facilitate long-term management.
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