During blood component therapy, what is a known complication to monitor for?

During blood component therapy, what is a known complication to monitor for?

• A. Transfusion reaction
• B. Hyperglycemia
• C. Vitamin deficiency
• D. Hyperlipidemia

Answer: (A)

Transfusion reactions are a known complication to monitor for during blood component therapy. When blood products are given, the body can react in various ways, from mild allergic symptoms to life-threatening events. Look for fever, chills, rigors, flushing or itching, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest or back pain, tachycardia, hypotension, or dark urine. These signs warrant stopping the transfusion immediately, maintaining IV access with normal saline, and notifying the provider to evaluate for a transfusion reaction. Hyperglycemia, vitamin deficiencies, and hyperlipidemia are not typical acute complications of a blood transfusion.

Transfusion reactions are a known complication to monitor for during blood component therapy. When blood products are given, the body can react in various ways, from mild allergic symptoms to life-threatening events. Look for fever, chills, rigors, flushing or itching, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest or back pain, tachycardia, hypotension, or dark urine. These signs warrant stopping the transfusion immediately, maintaining IV access with normal saline, and notifying the provider to evaluate for a transfusion reaction. Hyperglycemia, vitamin deficiencies, and hyperlipidemia are not typical acute complications of a blood transfusion.