A blood transfusion reaction is an adverse response that occurs when the recipient’s immune system attacks the donor blood cells due to incompatibility, contamination, or other causes.
Prompt recognition and intervention are critical to prevent severe complications.
Key Symptoms
Fever
Chills
Hypotension
Low back pain
Tachycardia
Hemoglobinuria
Blood Transfusion Administration
Type & Screen: Blood typing and cross-matching must be performed.
Start Time: Transfusion must begin within 30 minutes of blood pickup.
Duration: Blood must be transfused within 4 hours.
Compatibility: Always verify blood type and Rh factor.
Types of Reactions
Hemolytic Reaction: Destruction of red blood cells due to ABO incompatibility.
Febrile Non-Hemolytic Reaction: Caused by white blood cell antibodies.
Allergic Reaction: Immune response to plasma proteins.
Anaphylactic Reaction: Severe allergic response.
Nursing Actions for Reactions
Stop the transfusion immediately.
Maintain IV access with normal saline.
Notify the healthcare provider and blood bank.
Monitor vital signs closely and document findings.
Administer prescribed medications (e.g., antihistamines, steroids, vasopressors).
