When preparing to initiate a transfusion of packed RBC for a client with anemia, what should the nurse do?

When initiating a transfusion of packed red blood cells (RBC) for a client with anemia, it is crucial for the nurse to monitor the client’s vital signs closely, especially during the first hour of the transfusion. Checking vital signs every hour ensures that any potential adverse reactions to the transfusion, such as fever, chills, or an allergic reaction, can be detected early. This practice aligns with established guidelines, which often recommend monitoring more frequently in the initial stages of a transfusion—typically every 15 minutes for the first half-hour and then every 30 minutes thereafter, depending on the facility’s protocol.

Monitoring vital signs helps the nurse assess the patient’s response to the transfusion and intervene promptly if any complications arise. Therefore, vigilant vital sign assessment is a critical component of safe blood transfusion practice.

The chosen answer emphasizes patient safety and adherence to best-practice protocols during transfusion, which is essential for ensuring a positive patient outcome.