Which statement correctly describes the initial management of a suspected transfusion reaction?

Which statement correctly describes the initial management of a suspected transfusion reaction?

• A. Stop the transfusion and start a new IV saline infusion with new tubing
• B. Continue the transfusion while monitoring the patient
• C. Administer antibiotics immediately
• D. Record the event and continue

Answer: (A)

The first action when a transfusion reaction is suspected is to stop the transfusion immediately. This halts further exposure to the donor product and prevents the reaction from worsening. Then continue to support the patient by starting a normal saline infusion through a new IV line with fresh tubing to maintain circulation and flush any remaining product from the old line. After stopping the transfusion, notify the blood bank, document the event, and follow protocol for specimen collection and monitoring. Antibiotics aren’t part of the initial management unless there’s a specific infectious concern identified, and continuing the transfusion or simply recording the event without stopping it would allow ongoing harm.

The first action when a transfusion reaction is suspected is to stop the transfusion immediately. This halts further exposure to the donor product and prevents the reaction from worsening. Then continue to support the patient by starting a normal saline infusion through a new IV line with fresh tubing to maintain circulation and flush any remaining product from the old line. After stopping the transfusion, notify the blood bank, document the event, and follow protocol for specimen collection and monitoring. Antibiotics aren’t part of the initial management unless there’s a specific infectious concern identified, and continuing the transfusion or simply recording the event without stopping it would allow ongoing harm.