The nurse in the infusion center is caring for a 27-year-old male.
Item 1 of 1
• Nurses' Notes
1401: Orders received for PRBC transfusion. 20-gauge peripheral vascular access device (VAD) started right antecubital space. Blood return was observed, and was flushed with 10 mL of sodium chloride (normal saline) without resistance. The client denied any discomfort at the VAD. Sterile dressing was applied to the VAD. The client was provided verbal education regarding the potential blood transfusion reactions. The client verbalized understanding.
1430: PRBC unit retrieved from blood bank. Vital signs were obtained prior to starting blood transfusion: 99.0° F (37.2° C) P 78, RR 18, BP 130/86, pulse oximetry reading 97% on room air.
1439: Verified and checked client ID and blood product with another RN. Initiated PRBC transfusion via y-type tubing. Will remain with the client for 15 minutes to observe for any potential transfusion-related reaction.
1454: The client denied any manifestations of a transfusion reaction. Vital signs: 99.5°F (37.5°C) P 75, RR 18, BP 132/85, pulse oximetry reading 96% on room air. Increased rate of PRBC transfusion.
1520: The client alerted RN to come to their bedside, reporting pain and discomfort at their VAD. VAD was swollen and cool to the touch.
• Orders
• Infuse 1 unit of packed red blood cells
• Medical History
• Sickle cell anemia
• Depression
The nurse reviews the clinical data and prepares to take action following the 1520 nursing note entry. Complete the diagram by dragging from the choices below to specify what condition the client is most likely experiencing, 2 actions the nurse should take to address that condition and 2 parameters the nurse should monitor to assess the client's progress.
Correct Answer:
Rationale: The nurse should monitor the discomfort and swelling at the VAD site. Pausing the transfusion, elevating the extremity, and applying a compress should alleviate the discomfort and swelling.
The nurse will need to monitor the client's hemoglobin and hematocrit to determine the efficacy of the PRBC transfusion. Generally, one unit of PRBCs will raise the hemoglobin by 1 g/dL.
It is inappropriate for the nurse to monitor the client's temperature as it pertains to infiltration. The client's temperature is not relevant in managing infiltration.
The blood pressure does not require monitoring because it does not show evidence of circulatory overload.
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