The nurse is administering a blood transfusion to a 12-year-old child after a motor vehicle crash. About 15 minutes after beginning the transfusion, the child reports trouble breathing. The child's temperature is now 101.2°F (38.4°C) up from a baseline of 98.8°F (37.1°C). Which action would the nurse do next?
Give intravenous diphenhydramine (Benadryl) as ordered
Check the child's apical pulse.
Stop the transfusion
Collect a urine sample.
The Correct Answer is C
A. While administering diphenhydramine may be appropriate for allergic reactions, the priority action is to first stop the transfusion to assess and manage the situation appropriately.
B. Checking the child's apical pulse may provide additional information, but it is not the immediate priority in response to trouble breathing.
C. Stopping the transfusion is the critical first step in managing a suspected transfusion reaction, particularly since the child is exhibiting respiratory distress and a fever, which could indicate an acute hemolytic or allergic reaction.
D. Collecting a urine sample may be indicated later, particularly if a hemolytic reaction is suspected, but it is not an immediate priority over stopping the transfusion and ensuring patient safety.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Educating the family about antibiotics is important but not the immediate priority for symptom management.
B. Administering analgesic medication addresses the child's pain and discomfort, which is a priority in acute otitis media.
C. Applying an ice pack can provide some comfort but does not directly address the child's pain as effectively as medication.
D. Providing diversional activities may help occupy the child but is not a direct intervention for the pain associated with acute otitis media.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While administering diphenhydramine may be appropriate for allergic reactions, the priority action is to first stop the transfusion to assess and manage the situation appropriately.
B. Checking the child's apical pulse may provide additional information, but it is not the immediate priority in response to trouble breathing.
C. Stopping the transfusion is the critical first step in managing a suspected transfusion reaction, particularly since the child is exhibiting respiratory distress and a fever, which could indicate an acute hemolytic or allergic reaction.
D. Collecting a urine sample may be indicated later, particularly if a hemolytic reaction is suspected, but it is not an immediate priority over stopping the transfusion and ensuring patient safety.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.