Flash.Hem.Blood

Anemia, significant blood loss due to surgery or trauma, and certain medical conditions like kidney disease or cancer.

Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) due to conditions like leukemia, bone marrow disorders, or chemotherapy.

An adverse reaction that occurs when the patient's body reacts against the transfused blood.

Urticaria (hives) or itching.

Fever, chills, pain at the infusion site, dark urine, and jaundice.

To ensure compatibility and prevent transfusion reactions.

Screening of the donor's blood for infections like HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.

Verify the patient's identity and ensure the blood product matches the patient and the physician's order.

Before the transfusion, 15 minutes after the start, and then as per the institution's protocol, typically at the end of the transfusion.

Stop the transfusion immediately, keep the IV line open with saline, and notify the healthcare provider.

Emergency equipment, including epinephrine, antihistamines, and IV corticosteroids.

For at least one hour or as per the institution's protocol to identify any delayed reactions.

Start slowly, especially for the first 15 minutes, then adjust as per patient's tolerance and provider's order.

To filter out any clots or debris and prevent their infusion into the patient.

Record the start and end time, volume transfused, any reactions, vital signs, and other relevant observations.

Usually no longer than 4 hours.

To prevent or minimize potential allergic reactions, especially if they've had reactions in the past.

They may be pre-medicated with antipyretics or antihistamines, and blood transfusion should be administered slowly while monitoring closely.

Respect the patient's wishes, provide education on potential risks and benefits, and discuss alternative therapies or interventions.

The risk is volume overload or "transfusion-associated circulatory overload (TACO)." To minimize, transfuse slowly and monitor for signs of fluid overload like dyspnea, crackles in the lungs, or sudden weight gain.