A patient is suspected of having a transfusion reaction. When should the infusion be stopped?

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Multiple Choice

A patient is suspected of having a transfusion reaction. When should the infusion be stopped?

Explanation:
When a transfusion reaction is suspected, stop the infusion immediately. Reactions can progress rapidly and become life-threatening, so halting exposure to the transfused product at once minimizes further harm from hemolysis, anaphylaxis, or inflammatory complications. Delaying action—even briefly or waiting for symptoms to resolve or for physician approval—can allow the adverse process to worsen. After stopping, follow the protocols: leave the patient on saline with a new IV line if needed, notify the physician and the blood bank, and collect samples for investigation while continuing to monitor the patient.

When a transfusion reaction is suspected, stop the infusion immediately. Reactions can progress rapidly and become life-threatening, so halting exposure to the transfused product at once minimizes further harm from hemolysis, anaphylaxis, or inflammatory complications. Delaying action—even briefly or waiting for symptoms to resolve or for physician approval—can allow the adverse process to worsen. After stopping, follow the protocols: leave the patient on saline with a new IV line if needed, notify the physician and the blood bank, and collect samples for investigation while continuing to monitor the patient.

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