What is the first action a nurse should take if a client experiences chills and back pain during a blood transfusion?

The first action a nurse should take if a client experiences chills and back pain during a blood transfusion is to stop the infusion of blood. This is a critical response because these symptoms may indicate an adverse reaction to the transfusion, such as a hemolytic reaction, which could potentially lead to serious complications.

Stopping the infusion immediately helps to minimize any further exposure to the blood product that may be causing the reaction. It also allows for the nurse to assess the patient's condition, monitor vital signs, and provide any necessary interventions. After stopping the infusion, the nurse can then proceed to notify the healthcare provider and follow the facility’s protocol regarding adverse reactions to blood transfusions.

Taking this action first is crucial to ensuring patient safety and managing any immediate health risks. Once the blood is stopped, additional steps like informing the provider and obtaining necessary specimens can be undertaken in an orderly manner to address the situation appropriately.