Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 74%
Simulated
A nurse is planning care for a child who has a prescription to transfuse 2 units of packed RBCs. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
The correct answer is C: Infuse each unit of blood within 4 hours. This is important because packed RBCs must be infused within a specific timeframe to prevent bacterial growth and maintain the integrity of the blood product. Infusing the blood within 4 hours helps reduce the risk of bacterial contamination and ensures the effectiveness of the transfusion.
Explanation for other choices:
A: Infusing dextrose 5% in water during the infusion of packed RBCs is not necessary and may lead to fluid overload in the child.
B: Administering RBCs using non-filtered IV tubing can increase the risk of air embolism and contamination, so it is not the correct intervention.
D: Storing the second unit of blood at room temperature for up to 2 hours is incorrect as blood products should be stored under specific temperature conditions to maintain their quality and safety.
Explanation for other choices:
A: Infusing dextrose 5% in water during the infusion of packed RBCs is not necessary and may lead to fluid overload in the child.
B: Administering RBCs using non-filtered IV tubing can increase the risk of air embolism and contamination, so it is not the correct intervention.
D: Storing the second unit of blood at room temperature for up to 2 hours is incorrect as blood products should be stored under specific temperature conditions to maintain their quality and safety.