Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 85%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving a transfusion of packed red blood cells and develops itching and hives. What should be the nurse's first response?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
Stopping the transfusion immediately prevents further exposure to allergens causing the reaction. Obtaining vital signs, notifying the RN, or administering diphenhydramine are secondary to halting the transfusion to avoid worsening the reaction.