The nurse is planning to administer a transfusion of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) to a patient with blood loss from a gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Which action can the nurse delegate to the nursing assistant (unlicensed assistive personnel)?

Choice A reason: Urine output of 30 mL/hr is concerning as it is on the lower end of normal and can indicate dehydration or impaired renal function. However, in this context, it is less immediately alarming compared to severely low blood pressure.

Choice B reason: Blood pressure of 90/40 is critically low and indicates hypotension, which can be a sign of severe dehydration or shock, especially in a patient with ongoing nausea and vomiting. This requires immediate attention and intervention to stabilize the patient and prevent further complications.

Choice C reason: An infiltrated IV site is a problem that needs to be addressed to ensure proper administration of fluids and medications. However, it is not as immediately life-threatening as hypotension.

Choice D reason: Oral fluid intake of 100 mL for 8 hours is inadequate, suggesting that the patient may be dehydrated. While concerning, it is not as acutely critical as low blood pressure, which directly affects perfusion and organ function.

Choice A reason: While blood glucose monitoring is essential for patients receiving TPN, it is not specifically necessary to obtain samples from a central line. Blood glucose levels can be monitored through peripheral blood samples.

Choice B reason: There is actually an increased risk of infection with central lines compared to peripheral lines due to the invasive nature of central line placement and its location. Proper aseptic technique is critical to minimize this risk.

Choice C reason: The hypertonic solution will be more rapidly diluted when given through a central line. This is a critical point because the central veins have a higher blood flow and larger volume, which helps to quickly dilute the hypertonic TPN solution. This reduces the risk of phlebitis and damage to the smaller peripheral veins, making central lines more suitable for infusing highly concentrated solutions like 25% dextrose.

Choice D reason: While a central line can allow for the rapid administration of infusions, this is not the primary reason for its use with TPN. The key factor is the dilution of the hypertonic solution, as central lines handle high osmolarity solutions better than peripheral veins.