A patient was admitted to the emergency department after sustaining a gunshot wound to the abdomen. Hemoglobin on admission was 11.4 g/dL and is currently 9.8 g/dL. A transfusion of two units of packed red blood cells has been ordered. A nurse newly employed in the ED says, "I didn't think we gave blood until the hemoglobin is 8 or lower." How should the nurse manager respond?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hemoglobin levels are a guide to whether blood transfusion is necessary, but it is not the only criteria. In emergency situations like massive hemorrhage, transfusion may be necessary even when the hemoglobin level is above 8 g/dL. The nurse manager should explain to the new nurse that the decision to transfuse is based on the severity of bleeding and the patient's risk of further bleeding, not just the hemoglobin level.

A Patient Was Admitted to the Emergency Department After Sustaining