The patient is scheduled to receive 1 unit of packed red blood cells (RBCs).She has small,fragile veins,and a 22-gauge intravenous (IV)patent catheter is in place.What should the nurse do?
A)Cancel the blood transfusion.
B)Insert a 16-gauge IV catheter into the antecubital fossa.
C)Use the IV catheter that is in place.
D)Transfuse the blood over 6 hours.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In emergency situations that require rapid transfusions,a large-gauge cannula is preferred;however,transfusions for therapeutic indications may be infused with cannulas ranging from 20 to 24 gauge.Large-gauge cannulas (18 or 20 gauge)promote rapid flow of blood components.16-Gauge catheters are used frequently in surgery,but not usually on acute care units.Blood must be transfused within 4 hours.Use of smaller-gauge cannulas,such as 24 gauge,often requires the blood bank to divide the unit so that each half can be infused within the allotted time or requires the use of pressure-assisted devices.

The Patient Is Scheduled to Receive 1 Unit of Packed