If a unit of red blood cells was released from the blood bank 45 minutes ago and remains at room temperature, what should the nurse do next?
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Correct answer: Return the unit to the blood bank if past the time limit
Most facilities require blood to be transfused within a specified time (commonly < 30-45 minutes from release) to reduce the risk of bacterial growth; if not hung within that time, it must be returned.
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More Blood Transfusion Therapy and Nursing Care questions
- When a patient suddenly develops hypotension, chest pain, and dark urine during a transfusion, what reaction is most likely?
- When a patient post-transfusion presents crackles at lung bases, increased BP, and shortness of breath, what should the nurse do?
- What key nurse teaching should be given to a patient about to receive a transfusion?
- Before initiating a blood transfusion, what should the nurse's first action be?
- What is a critical safety step just prior to administering a unit of blood?
- How long should the nurse monitor vital signs after initiating a transfusion?