A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving a blood transfusion at 125 mL/hr and develops a hemolytic reaction. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform?

Choice A reason: Infusing 0.9% sodium chloride IV is the correct action because it maintains venous access and prevents clotting while stopping the transfusion. Normal saline is the only compatible solution for flushing blood products. This intervention ensures the client remains stabilized while further treatment is initiated. Choice B reason: Administering an antipyretic may reduce fever but does not address the underlying hemolytic reaction. The priority is to stop the transfusion and maintain IV access with normal saline. Antipyretics are supportive but not the immediate intervention. Choice C reason: Decreasing the infusion rate to 75 mL/hr is inappropriate because the transfusion must be stopped immediately when a hemolytic reaction occurs. Continuing the transfusion, even at a slower rate, exposes the client to further hemolysis and complications such as renal failure or shock. Choice D reason: Placing the client in a left lateral position does not address the hemolytic reaction. Positioning may be useful in other conditions (e.g., aspiration risk), but it is not relevant to transfusion reactions. The priority is stopping the transfusion and initiating supportive care.