A nurse prepares to administer a transfusion of RBCs and takes the client’s vital signs. The client’s temperature is 102.7°F, but other vitals are within normal limits. The nurse should

  1. transfuse the RBC as ordered.
  2. administer an antipyretic and transfuse the RBCs.
  3. transfuse the RBCs but monitor the temperature hourly.
  4. not transfuse the RBCs and instead contact the physician.
Number 4 is correct.
Rationale: An elevated temperature may indicate an underlying infection or illness, and the nurse should speak with the health care provider before continuing with the RBC transfusion.