Author Question: A nurse has just received a bag of packed red blood cells (RBCs) for a patient. What is the longest ... (Read 36 times)

jerry coleman · **on:** Jul 22, 2018

A nurse has just received a bag of packed red blood cells (RBCs) for a patient. What is the longest time the nurse can let the blood infuse?

a. 30 minutes
b. 2 hours
c. 4 hours
d. 6 hours

Question 2

A nurse is preparing to start a blood transfusion. Which type of tubing will the nurse obtain?

a. Two-way valves to allow the patient's blood to mix and warm the blood transfusing
b. An injection port to mix additional electrolytes into the blood
c. A filter to ensure that clots do not enter the patient
d. An air vent to let bubbles into the blood

kaylee05 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Ideally a unit of whole blood or packed RBCs is transfused in 2 hours. This time can be lengthened to 4 hours if the patient is at risk for extracellular volume excess. Beyond 4 hours there is a risk for bacterial contamination of the blood.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
When administering a transfusion you need an appropriate-size IV catheter and blood administration tubing that has a special in-line filter. The patient's blood should not be mixed with the infusion blood. Air bubbles should not be allowed to enter the blood. The only substance compatible with blood is normal saline; no additives should be mixed with the infusing blood.