Learning objectives
- Describe the different types of transfusion reactions
- Recognize the signs of the different types of transfusion reactions
- Take preventative measures against transfusion reactions
- Manage the occurrence of transfusion reactions
Definition & mechanisms
- Transfusion reactions are the most frequent adverse event associated with the administration of blood products, occurring in up to one in 100 transfusions
- There are several types of adverse reactions:
- Allergic/Anaphylactic reactions
- Acute hemolytic reactions
- Delayed hemolytic reactions
- Febrile non-hemolytic reactions
- Hyperhemolytic reactions
- Hypotensive reactions
- Massive transfusion-associated reactions
- Post-transfusion purpura
- Septic reactions
- Transfusion-associated circulatory overload
- Transfusion-associated graft versus host disease
- Transfusion-associated necrotizing enterocolitis
- Transfusion-related acute lung injury
Signs & symptoms
Prevention
- Comprehensive training of staff
- Close adherence to blood handling and administration policies
- Laboratory testing
- Prospective monitoring and planning
- A restrictive transfusion strategy to avoid unnecessary transfusions
Management
Suggested reading
- Delaney M, Wendel S, Bercovitz RS, et al. Transfusion reactions: prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Lancet. 2016;388(10061):2825-2836.
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