When a patient develops a rapid bounding pulse and elevated blood pressure during a blood transfusion, what should the nurse do?

When a patient experiences a rapid bounding pulse and elevated blood pressure during a blood transfusion, it indicates a potential complication, such as a transfusion reaction or fluid overload. In such cases, the most appropriate action is to stop the transfusion immediately. This helps prevent further complications and allows for assessment and intervention to manage the patient’s symptoms.

Stopping the transfusion promptly allows the healthcare team to evaluate the cause of these symptoms, provides an opportunity to assess the patient’s vital signs continuously, and initiates appropriate interventions, such as administering diuretics if fluid overload is suspected. It is essential to prioritize patient safety in situations where alarming signs like changes in pulse and blood pressure occur. By halting the transfusion, the nurse can also facilitate the investigation of the underlying cause, which is crucial for patient management.