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

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).