Your ESRD patient is receiving 2 units of packed red blood cells for anemia (Hgb of 8.2). Twenty minutes into the first transfusion, the nurse observes the patient has a flushed face, hives over upper body trunk, and is complaining of pain in lower back. His vital signs include pulse rate of 110 and BP drop to 95/56. What is the nurse's priority action?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An immediate hemolytic reaction usually is caused by ABO incompatibility. The signs include flushing of the face, urticaria (hives), headache, pain in the lumbar area, chills, fever, chest pain, tachycardia, hypotension, and dyspnea. If any of these actions occur, the transfusion should be stopped immediately. Access to a vein should be maintained because it may be necessary to infuse IV solutions to ensure diuresis. Slowing the rate of the blood infusion will not correct this hemolytic reaction and will only worsen the patient's condition. Of course, documentation after the above interventions are performed is vital. Rechecking the blood type infusing will not stop the hemolytic reaction. After corrective actions/interventions are taken, the blood bag is returned to the blood bank for further testing.

Your ESRD Patient Is Receiving 2 Units of Packed Red