During a transfusion, a patient suddenly develops high fever, rigors, nausea and hypotension. Which complication should the nurse suspect?
Correct answer: A. Bacterial contamination of the blood product
- A. Bacterial contamination of the blood product
- B. Mild allergic transfusion reaction
- C. Simple dilutional hyponatraemia
- D. Local infiltration at the IV site
Explanation
High fever, rigors and hypotension during transfusion suggest bacterial contamination, which is a medical emergency. A mild allergic reaction usually causes itching or urticaria without severe fever and circulatory collapse.
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About IV Fluids and Blood Transfusion
IV therapy covers crystalloid and colloid fluids, electrolyte replacement, maintenance and resuscitation fluids, infusion equipment and complications such as infiltration, phlebitis, fluid overload and electrolyte imbalance. Blood transfusion content includes compatibility, cross matching, administration precautions and recognition of haemolytic, febrile and allergic reactions, distinct from ordinary IV fluid reactions.
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