After a blood transfusion is stopped due to lumbar pain, what is the nurse's next appropriate action?

In the scenario where a blood transfusion is stopped due to lumbar pain, the most appropriate next action involves increasing the flow of normal saline. This step is important for several reasons. First, saline helps to maintain venous access, which is crucial in case a reaction is confirmed, and further interventions are necessary. It also aids in flushing the infused blood and any potential contaminants from the system while mitigating the potential for hemolytic reactions, as normal saline is the preferred solution for such scenarios.

Moreover, administering normal saline can help prevent clot formation in the IV line, ensuring that if additional treatment becomes necessary, access remains clear. It also helps in diluting any potential inflammatory mediators that may have been released, which could be contributing to the lumbar pain being experienced.

Monitoring vital signs is certainly critical in the process of assessing for transfusion reactions, but immediate intervention with saline would take precedence to ensure patient safety and response is promptly managed. Administering pain medication may help alleviate discomfort but does not address the underlying cause nor the immediate need for salvaging IV access. Notifying the physician is an essential step, but should come after ensuring the patient remains stable and well-supported.