Basic Adult Health Care NCLEX Heart Questions Related

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The nurse is administering packed red blood cells (PRBCs) to a client. The nurse should first:

  • A. Discontinue the I.V. catheter if a blood transfusion reaction occurs.
  • B. Administer the PRBCs through a percutaneously inserted central catheter line with a 20-gauge needle.
  • C. Flush PRBCs with 5% dextrose and 0.45% normal saline solution.
  • D. Stay with the client during the first 15 minutes of infusion.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should stay with the client during the first 15 minutes of a blood transfusion, as this is the most likely time for a transfusion reaction to occur. Close monitoring allows for immediate intervention if a reaction is detected. Discontinuing the IV is only done if a reaction occurs, PRBCs should not be administered via a 20-gauge needle (a larger gauge is needed), and dextrose solutions are incompatible with PRBCs.