Before administering 2 units of packed RBCs to an older adult client with anemia, what assessment is crucial?

Assessing the client’s lung sounds prior to administering packed red blood cells (RBCs) is essential because older adults are at higher risk for fluid overload and transfusion-related complications. Lung sounds provide critical information regarding the client’s respiratory status and can indicate the presence of fluid overload or other respiratory issues such as congestion or crackles, which may suggest that the client is not tolerating the volume of fluid that will be introduced during transfusion.

Moreover, any signs of respiratory distress can be significant when anticipating a transfusion. Therefore, ensuring that the lungs are clear helps to establish a baseline, allowing for early detection and intervention should complications arise during the transfusion process.

In comparison, while assessing blood pressure and pulse is indeed important for monitoring hemodynamic stability, and checking for previous allergic reactions is crucial for preventing potential transfusion reactions, these assessments do not specifically address the risk of lung complications directly related to fluid overload. Confirming dietary intake, although relevant for overall patient health and anemia management, does not directly impact the immediate preparation for a blood transfusion. Thus, evaluating lung sounds stands out as particularly crucial in this scenario.