Asked by Corinna Ragsdale on Jun 11, 2024
Verified
The patient is scheduled to receive 1 unit of packed red blood cells (RBCs) .She has small,fragile veins,and a 22-gauge intravenous (IV) patent catheter is in place.What should the nurse do?
A) Cancel the blood transfusion.
B) Insert a 16-gauge IV catheter into the antecubital fossa.
C) Use the IV catheter that is in place.
D) Transfuse the blood over 6 hours.
Intravenous Catheter
A thin tube inserted into a vein, usually for the administration of fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into the bloodstream.
Antecubital Fossa
An anatomical term for the hollow region on the front of the elbow where veins are often accessed for blood draw or intravenous lines.
- Comprehend methods for safely conducting blood transfusions.
- Detail the preliminary assessment and actions required prior to initiating a blood transfusion.
Verified Answer
AI
Aysel IshayevaJun 14, 2024
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
In emergency situations that require rapid transfusions,a large-gauge cannula is preferred;however,transfusions for therapeutic indications may be infused with cannulas ranging from 20 to 24 gauge.Large-gauge cannulas (18 or 20 gauge)promote rapid flow of blood components.16-Gauge catheters are used frequently in surgery,but not usually on acute care units.Blood must be transfused within 4 hours.Use of smaller-gauge cannulas,such as 24 gauge,often requires the blood bank to divide the unit so that each half can be infused within the allotted time or requires the use of pressure-assisted devices.
Learning Objectives
- Comprehend methods for safely conducting blood transfusions.
- Detail the preliminary assessment and actions required prior to initiating a blood transfusion.