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The nurse is assessing the client following the transfusion of 2 units of packed RBCs.

Click to highlight the findings that indicate improvement in the client's condition. To deselect a finding, click on the finding again.

Laboratory Results

1800:

WBC count 6,700/mm3 (5,000 to 10,000/mm3)

Hemoglobin 12 g/dL (14 to 18 g/dL)

Hematocrit 36% (40% to 52%)

Vital Signs

1800:

Blood pressure 112/74 mm Hg

Heart rate 95/min

Respiratory rate 18/min

Temperature 37.5°C (99.5° F)

Oxygen saturation 100% via 2 L/min nasal cannula

Assessment

1800:

Physical Exam:

General: no distress

HEENT: oropharynx clear, mucous membranes moist and pink

Respiratory: bilateral breath sounds clear

Gl: epigastric tenderness to palpation, no rebound tenderness or guarding Neuro: awake and alert

Hemoglobin 12 g/dL (14 to 18 g/dL)

Hematocrit 36% (40% to 52%)

Blood pressure 112/74 mm Hg

Heart rate 95/min

Oxygen saturation 100% via 2 L/min nasal cannula

no distress

oropharynx clear, mucous membranes moist and pink

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E","F","G"]

Rationale

Findings Indicating Improvement Laboratory Results:

Hemoglobin 12 g/dL (Normal range: 14 to 18 g/dL)

Although the hemoglobin level is still slightly below the normal range (it was 9.1 g/dL prior to the transfusion), it has increased from 9.1 g/dL to 12 g/dL, showing improvement after the blood transfusion. This indicates that the transfusion has helped to raise the hemoglobin level, improving oxygen-carrying capacity.

Hematocrit 36% (Normal range: 40% to 52%)

The hematocrit level has also increased from 27% to 36%. While still below normal, this is an improvement, suggesting the transfusion is starting to correct the client’s anemia and restore normal blood volume.

Vital Signs:

Blood Pressure 112/74 mm Hg

The blood pressure has improved significantly from 76/45 mm Hg (at 1200) and 78/49 mm Hg (at 1230). An increase in blood pressure to 112/74 mm Hg indicates the client is now hemodynamically stable, and the transfusion has helped to address the hypotension. The blood pressure is now in a normal range (typically around 120/80 mm Hg), and it is no longer dangerously low.

Heart Rate 95/min

The heart rate has decreased from 118/min and 121/min (at earlier times) to 95/min. This drop

indicates that the client’s heart is not having to work as hard to compensate for the low blood volume,

suggesting improvement in circulatory status.

Oxygen Saturation 100% via 2 L/min nasal cannula

Oxygen saturation is now normal at 100%. This is an improvement compared to the previous status of 98% on room air, which indicates that the client is now receiving adequate oxygenation, and the supplemental oxygen may be effectively maintaining oxygen levels.

Physical Exam:

General: No distress

The client is no longer in apparent distress, which is an important sign of improvement. Prior to the transfusion, the client was described as diaphoretic and uncomfortable, but now the client is stable and not in distress.

HEENT: Oropharynx clear, mucous membranes moist and pink

The mucous membranes are now moist and pink, which suggests adequate hydration and oxygenation. This is an improvement, as the previous finding indicated the client’s mucous membranes were pale (which can be a sign of anemia or dehydration).

Nursing Test Bank

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"A"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"B"},"E":{"answers":"A"}}

Explanation

Rationale
1. Stay with the client for the first 15 minutes of the transfusion.

Indicated
This is a standard protocol for blood transfusions. The first 15 minutes of the transfusion are the most critical because acute transfusion reactions (such as allergic reactions, febrile reactions, or hemolysis) are most likely to occur during this time. By staying with the client, the nurse can monitor for any signs of reaction (e.g., fever, chills, shortness of breath, rash) and intervene immediately if necessary.

2. Titrate the rate of infusion to maintain the client's blood pressure at least 90/60 mm Hg.

Indicated
Given the client’s low blood pressure (hypotension), it is important to monitor and potentially titrate the rate of infusion during the blood transfusion. The nurse should ensure that the blood pressure is maintained at an acceptable level. Blood transfusions can cause fluid shifts and affect hemodynamics, so the nurse may adjust the transfusion rate based on the client's vital signs to maintain adequate blood pressure and avoid complications, such as fluid overload or inadequate tissue perfusion.
3. Obtain the first unit of packed RBCs from the blood bank.

Indicated
The client is being prepared for a blood transfusion, so obtaining the blood product from the blood bank is a necessary step. The nurse must ensure that the correct blood product (two units of packed RBCs) is ordered, cross-matched, and ready for administration. Blood verification is critical to avoid transfusion errors, and this step is essential for the transfusion process.
4. Start an IV bolus of lactated Ringer's solution.
The provider’s prescription specifies a 500 mL bolus of normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride), not lactated Ringer's solution. Normal saline is preferred for blood transfusions because it does not contain calcium, which can bind to the citrate in blood products and cause clotting or other complications. Using the correct IV solution is essential for safety.
5. Document the blood product transfusion in the client's medical record.

Indicated
Proper documentation is essential in nursing practice. The nurse must record key information regarding the blood transfusion, including the type of blood product, the date and time of transfusion, the rate of infusion, and any reactions or complications. Documentation helps ensure continuity of care, and it is required by legal and institutional standards.

A. "Limit your child's potassium intake while she is taking this medication." B. "Repeat the dose if your child vomits within 1 hour after taking the medication." C. "Have your child drink a small glass of water after swallowing the medication." D. "You can add the medication to a half-cup of your child's favorite juice."

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Potassium levels should not be limited while taking digoxin; in fact, maintaining adequate potassium levels is important to prevent digoxin toxicity.
B. This is not recommended because it can lead to an overdose.
C. This helps ensure that the medication is swallowed completely and reduces the risk of irritation to the esophagus.
D. Digoxin should not be mixed with juice or any other liquid as this can affect absorption and cause inconsistent dosing.

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Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse reviews the entries in the medical record. The nurse is ready to begin the blood transfusion. For each potential nursing action, click to specify if the action is indicated or not indicated for the client.

Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"A"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"B"},"E":{"answers":"A"}}

Explanation

A nurse is providing teaching about digoxin administration to the parents of a toddler who has heart failure. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

Correct Answer is C

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