Question

A patient receiving plasma develops transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) 4 hours after the transfusion. What type of aggressive therapy does the nurse anticipate the patient will receive to prevent death from the injury? (Select all that apply.)

a) Oxygen
b) Serial chest x-rays
c) Intubation and mechanical ventilation
d) Fluid support
e) Intra-aortic balloon pump

Answer 1

The nurse should anticipate providing oxygen therapy, intubation and mechanical ventilation, careful fluid support, and monitoring with serial chest x-rays for a patient with TRALI following a plasma transfusion. An intra-aortic balloon pump is not typically a part of TRALI management.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a patient develops transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) 4 hours after receiving plasma, the nurse should anticipate aggressive therapies focused on supporting respiratory function and preventing further lung damage. These therapies may include:

• Oxygen therapy to ensure adequate oxygenation.
• Intubation and mechanical ventilation to assist or control breathing if the patient's respiratory efforts are insufficient.
• Fluid support for maintaining blood pressure and tissue perfusion, although it must be carefully managed to avoid exacerbating pulmonary edema.
• Serial chest x-rays to monitor the progression of lung injury.

An intra-aortic balloon pump is typically not indicated in TRALI management as it is more relevant to cardiac issues. The primary goal of therapy in TRALI is to support the lungs and ensure adequate gas exchange.