Immediate Management of a Transfusion Reaction

Be aware that clinical symptoms, not only changes in vital signs, may be the first indications of a transfusion reaction.

In the event of a transfusion reaction:

1. STOP administration immediately and maintain IV access.  (keep the suspected unit and attached administration set for investigation)
2. ASSESS vital signs and stabilise patient.
3. CHECK all labels, forms and patient identification to determine whether the unit of blood was intended for the recipient.
4. NOTIFY medical officer promptly. MET Call if patient meets criteria!
5. ADMINISTER instructions given by the medical officer to treat the reaction.
6. REMAIN with the patient until the reaction has resolved.
7. REPORT the transfusion reaction report
   1. Complete the transfusion reaction report located on page 4 of the Blood Transfusion form M109.0
   2. Send a copy of the transfusion reaction report with the suspected unit and attached administration set, and appropriate specimens to the Austin blood bank.  Ensure not to contaminate the suspected unit and attached administration set as this may impact on any microbiological testing. 
   3. Complete a riskman incident report
   4. Reactions to blood products: Albumex, Intravenous Immunoglobulin (e.g. Intragam, Flebogamma) and coagulation factor concentrates shall be reported to the Austin blood bank who in turn will notify the relevant manufacturer of the adverse event.
8. DOCUMENT the transfusion reaction and associated management in the patient’s medical notes

Reaction Recognition and Clinical Management Advice

Haematology laboratory registrars and on-call Haematologist are available for advice. Contact ext 5230. Please use the following link for up to date information about transfusion reaction recognition and management.

http://www.transfusion.com.au/Adverse-Reactions.aspx