BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS

Question 1

What equipment is needed for a blood transfusion?

Answer 1

Infusion pump
Blood product
Copy of the hospitals policies and procedures
IV line with a filter
Medical order/Consent form
Compatible IV solution

Question 2

Identify the different types of blood products and indications for use

Answer 2

1. Red Blood Cells
   (anaemia, leukaemia or kidney disease → often need transfusion –> provides haemoglobin and iron)
2. Cryoprecipitate
   Helps blood cloting
3. Fresh frozen plasma
   used to treat conditions in which there are low blood clotting factors or blood proteins. Used for coagulopathy who are bleeding or at risk of bleeding.
4. Platelets
   low platelets = pt at risk for dangerous bleeding
5. Immunoglobulins
   For pts with antibody deficiencies

Question 3

Signs and symptoms of a transfusion reaction

Answer 3

Mild: rashes, hives, pruritis
Severe: wheezing, hypotension, anaphylaxis
Febrile: Hypertension with chills and rigors (often due to bacterial contamination)
Acute haemolytic: Tachycardia, hypotention, oliguria, IV site pain

Question 4

What are the nursing responsibilities in administration of blood products?

Answer 4

STOP TRANSFUSION if there are any complaints of the aforementioned reactions

Initial set of observations → observations throughout the transfusion

Legal responsibilities (informed consent, documentaion check e.g. indication, right pt and blood product)

Ongoing monitoring

Escalating if the patient has a reaction

Check the policies and procedures prior to administration