What should be the initial action of a practical nurse if a client complains of chills and headache during a transfusion?

What should be the initial action of a practical nurse if a client complains of chills and headache during a transfusion?

• A. Obtain a urine specimen
• B. Stop the transfusion
• C. Notify the registered nurse (RN)
• D. Check the client's temperature

Answer: (B)

When a client reports symptoms such as chills and headache during a blood transfusion, the initial action is to stop the transfusion. This is a critical step because these symptoms may indicate a potential transfusion reaction, which can be serious and requires immediate intervention. Stopping the transfusion minimizes further exposure to the blood product, reducing the risk of complications for the client. Following the cessation of the transfusion, other actions such as notifying the registered nurse and checking the client's temperature can be performed, but they come after ensuring that no additional blood is being administered to the client. It is essential for patient safety to prioritize stopping the transfusion as the first measure in response to any concerning symptoms during the procedure.

When a client reports symptoms such as chills and headache during a blood transfusion, the initial action is to stop the transfusion. This is a critical step because these symptoms may indicate a potential transfusion reaction, which can be serious and requires immediate intervention. Stopping the transfusion minimizes further exposure to the blood product, reducing the risk of complications for the client.

Following the cessation of the transfusion, other actions such as notifying the registered nurse and checking the client's temperature can be performed, but they come after ensuring that no additional blood is being administered to the client. It is essential for patient safety to prioritize stopping the transfusion as the first measure in response to any concerning symptoms during the procedure.