Transfusion reaction identification and management at the bedside.
Blood product transfusion is one of the most common invasive procedures performed in the health care setting. In contrast to pharmaceuticals, blood is actually a liquid transplant. Transfusion complications consequently encompass complex biological processes and infectious possibilities. Changes in vital signs are regularly seen during transfusion. Knowledge of common transfusion reaction signs and symptoms enables the clinical team to differentiate a normal patient response from a life-threatening reaction. Direct care nurses responsible for this procedure play a vital role in its success. Understanding the possible complications of transfusion and how to quickly recognize reactions at the bedside helps ensure the best patient outcomes.
Department of Pathology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico; United Blood Services of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Kendall P. Crookston, MD, PhD, is a professor of pathology and medicine at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine, with expertise in transfusion medicine and medical education. He holds a PhD in biochemistry and has written and edited articles, chapters, and textbooks used by physicians and nurses. As the regional medical director for United Blood Services of New Mexico since 1999, he has been director of an active therapeutic apheresis nursing service. Sara C. Koenig, MD, is the medical director of the clinical laboratories and the blood bank at the University of New Mexico and is actively involved in hemovigilance and transfusion safety. She is also an associate medical director of United Blood Services of New Mexico in Albuquerque. Michael D. Reyes, MD, has completed training in anatomic and clinical pathology and is currently a transfusion medicine fellow at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine, in Albuquerque.
Kendall P
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Crookston
Sara C
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Koenig
Michael D
MD
Reyes
D006801:Humans; D019095:Point-of-Care Systems; D065227:Transfusion Reaction