A nurse is planning care for a client who is to receive one unit of packed RBCs. Within which of the following time spans must the nurse complete the infusion?
2 hr
8 hr
6 hr
4 hr
The Correct Answer is D
A. 2 hr: While some patients may tolerate faster infusion rates, the maximum safe time is 4 hours, and there is no requirement to complete it in 2 hours.
B. 8 hr: Blood cannot be left out for 8 hours due to the increased risk of bacterial growth and contamination.
C. 6 hr: Infusing blood over 6 hours exceeds the safe time limit and poses a risk of bacterial contamination.
D. 4 hr: To reduce the risk of bacterial contamination, a unit of packed RBCs must be transfused within 4 hours of starting the infusion. This time frame ensures that the blood remains safe for the patient while minimizing exposure to room temperature.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. 2 hr: While some patients may tolerate faster infusion rates, the maximum safe time is 4 hours, and there is no requirement to complete it in 2 hours.
B. 8 hr: Blood cannot be left out for 8 hours due to the increased risk of bacterial growth and contamination.
C. 6 hr: Infusing blood over 6 hours exceeds the safe time limit and poses a risk of bacterial contamination.
D. 4 hr: To reduce the risk of bacterial contamination, a unit of packed RBCs must be transfused within 4 hours of starting the infusion. This time frame ensures that the blood remains safe for the patient while minimizing exposure to room temperature.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Hematocrit 35% (F 37%–47%; M 42%–52%): Although the hematocrit is slightly low, it is not as concerning as a low platelet count, which poses an immediate risk for bleeding.
B. Bone pain: Bone pain is common in leukemia due to bone marrow expansion, but it does not take priority over the risk of bleeding from thrombocytopenia.
C. Weight loss: Weight loss may be a symptom of leukemia, but it is not immediately life-threatening and does not take priority over a low platelet count that increases bleeding risk.
D. Platelet count 125,000/mm³ (150,000–400,000): A low platelet count is concerning in leukemia patients because it increases the risk of bleeding. Monitoring for and preventing bleeding is a high priority due to thrombocytopenia associated with leukemia.