What actions should be taken if a transfusion reaction occurs?

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When a transfusion reaction is suspected, the immediate actions focus on patient safety and rapid escalation of care. The best course is to stop the transfusion right away, assess the patient for signs such as fever, chills, rash, dyspnea, or changes in vitals, and then notify the physician and the transfusion service. Document what happened—time, symptoms, vital signs, and any interventions—and report the incident per your facility’s protocol. Keeping the IV line open with normal saline (if not contraindicated) to maintain access can be important for further treatment. This approach halts exposure to the offending product, allows timely treatment, and ensures proper follow-up and safety reporting.

Continuing the transfusion would risk worsening the reaction, and concealing or ignoring it would compromise patient safety and violate professional standards.