When monitoring a client receiving packed RBCs, which finding is expected?

When monitoring a client receiving packed RBCs, the expected finding is that the packed RBCs are connected by Y tubing to normal saline. This configuration is utilized to ensure that the RBCs are delivered effectively while also allowing for normal saline to maintain patency of the IV line and to prevent potential reactions. Normal saline acts as a flush and ensures that the blood keeps flowing smoothly, minimizing the risk of clots and facilitating a safe infusion.

Using Y tubing allows for the infusion of packed cells while simultaneously administering normal saline. This is critical in managing the infusion and maintaining the flow, especially in cases when the blood product needs to be flushed or if there’s a need to administer other fluids without interrupting the blood transfusion.

In this context, the other options present potential complications or misconceptions. For instance, a drip chamber that is completely filled with blood could indicate an obstruction or improper flow, which is not a normal finding. Infusing blood steadily for 5 hours without symptoms may be misleading as blood transfusions typically do not last that long and need to be monitored closely for reactions, which typically happen within the first 30 minutes to an hour. Administering medication through the same injection site closest to the client during a blood transfusion poses a