Lewis's Medical Surgical Nursing in Canada, 5th Edition - Nursing Management: Hematological Conditions Related

Review Lewis's Medical Surgical Nursing in Canada, 5th Edition - Nursing Management: Hematological Conditions related questions and content

The nurse is caring for a patient who has a history of a transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) and is to receive a transfusion of packed red blood cells (PRBCs). Which of the following actions should the nurse take to decrease the risk for TRALI for this patient?

  • A. Infuse the PRBCs slowly over 4 hours.
  • B. Transfuse only leukocyte-reduced PRBCs.
  • C. Administer the scheduled oral diuretic before the transfusion.
  • D. Give the PRN dose of antihistamine before starting the transfusion.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: TRALI is caused by a reaction between the donor and the patient leukocytes that causes pulmonary inflammation and capillary leaking. The other actions may help prevent respiratory condition caused by circulatory overload or by allergic reactions, but they will not prevent TRALI.