The patient has received a total of 7 units of blood over the past 8 hours.The nurse assesses the patient's laboratory test results.Which of the following would be an expected complication?
A)Hypokalemia
B)Hyperkalemia
C)Hypercalcemia
D)Iron deficiency

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When blood is stored,there is continual destruction of red blood cells (RBCs),which releases potassium from the cells into the plasma.If blood is transfused rapidly,transient hyperkalemia may occur before the potassium is reabsorbed.Blood that is preserved with citrate phosphate dextrose (CPD)contains a high concentration of citrate ions.The excess citrate may combine with the ionized calcium in the recipient's blood,resulting in transient low ionized calcium levels.Patients receiving multiple transfusions should be assessed for iron overload.

The Patient Has Received a Total of 7 Units of Blood