During a transfusion of packed red blood cells, a client suddenly develops dyspnea, crackles in the lung bases, distended neck veins, and an increased blood pressure. The nurse should immediately:

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

These symptoms indicate circulatory overload, a non-allergic transfusion reaction. The immediate action is to stop the transfusion, elevate the head of the bed to ease breathing, and notify the provider for diuretics and other interventions.