Wk. 3 - Blood Administration

What are three main indications for PRBC transfusion?

Hemoglobin <7 g/dL in stable adults, <8 g/dL in cardiovascular/surgical patients, and active bleeding or hemorrhagic shock.

How much does one unit of PRBCs increase hemoglobin?

Approximately 1 g/dL.

What is the maximum time PRBCs should be infused to prevent bacterial contamination?

Within 4 hours.

What type of tubing should be used for PRBC administration?

170-micron filter blood tubing.

Why must PRBCs be ABO and Rh compatible?

To prevent hemolytic transfusion reactions.

What are two main indications for FFP transfusion?

Coagulation deficiencies and active bleeding with prolonged PT/INR.

Does FFP require ABO compatibility?

Yes, ABO compatibility is required; Rh compatibility is preferred.

How quickly should FFP be infused?

Within 30-60 minutes per unit.

What is the expected outcome of FFP transfusion?

Correction of clotting factor deficiencies.

What platelet count typically indicates a need for platelet transfusion?

<10,000/µL or active bleeding with platelet dysfunction.

How much does one unit of platelets increase platelet count?

5,000-10,000/µL per unit.

How long should platelets be infused over?

30-60 minutes.

Is ABO compatibility required for platelet transfusion?

It is preferred but not required.

What are two indications for cryoprecipitate transfusion?

Fibrinogen deficiency (<100 mg/dL) and von Willebrand disease.

How quickly should cryoprecipitate be infused?

Within 10-30 minutes.

Is ABO compatibility required for cryoprecipitate?

It is preferred but not required.

What are three indications for albumin administration?

Hypovolemia, hypoalbuminemia, and burns.

Does albumin require ABO or Rh compatibility?

No.

How is 5% albumin typically infused?

Over 1-2 hours.

What is the purpose of blood typing?

Identifies a person’s ABO and Rh factor.

What does a crossmatch test check for?

Ensures donor and recipient blood compatibility.

What is the purpose of an antibody screen before transfusion?

Detects antibodies that may react with donor blood.

What are two key steps before starting a transfusion?

Verify patient ID and blood type with another RN, and obtain baseline vital signs.

How long should a nurse stay with the patient after starting a transfusion?

At least 10-15 minutes.

What is the only IV fluid compatible with blood products?

Normal saline (0.9% NaCl).

How often should vitals be taken during the first hour of a transfusion?

Every 15 minutes.

What are three symptoms of an acute hemolytic reaction?

Fever, tachycardia, and hypotension.

What is the first nursing intervention for a suspected transfusion reaction?

Stop the transfusion immediately.

What medication is given for febrile non-hemolytic reactions?

Acetaminophen (Tylenol).

What are two key interventions for TACO (Transfusion-Associated Circulatory Overload)?

Slow the infusion rate and administer diuretics (e.g., furosemide).