ATI Hematologic System Related

Review ATI Hematologic System related questions and content

An older adult patient is receiving a transfusion of packed red blood cells after being injured in a car accident. On assessment, the nurse notes a new finding of bounding pulse, crackles, and increasing dyspnea. What should the nurse do first, after stopping the transfusion?

  • A. Assess vital signs.
  • B. Raise the head of the bed.
  • C. Encourage the patient to deep breathe and cough.
  • D. Administer pm diphenhydramine (Benadryl) as ordered.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Raise the head of the bed. After stopping the transfusion due to signs of fluid overload, the priority is to alleviate symptoms and improve respiratory function. Elevating the head of the bed helps reduce venous return, decreasing preload and cardiac workload, which can help manage symptoms like dyspnea and crackles. This action promotes better oxygenation and reduces the risk of complications like pulmonary edema. Assessing vital signs (Choice A) is important but not the immediate priority. Encouraging deep breathing and coughing (Choice C) may exacerbate respiratory distress in this situation. Administering diphenhydramine (Choice D) is not indicated for fluid overload.