🩸 BLOOD TRANSFUSION PROCEDURE

1. Definition

• Blood transfusion is the administration of whole blood or its components from a donor to a recipient intravenously to restore blood volume or specific components.

2. Purpose

• To replace blood loss

• To increase hemoglobin level

• To improve oxygen-carrying capacity

• To correct coagulation disorders

3. Indications

• Severe anemia

• Hemorrhage

• Shock

• Surgical patients

• Blood disorders

4. Contraindications

⚠️ Relative contraindications:

• History of transfusion reactions

• Heart failure (risk of overload)

5. Articles / Equipment

🧰 Equipment:

• IV stand

• Blood transfusion set (with filter)

🧴 Supplies:

• Blood bag (cross-matched)

• IV cannula

• Normal saline

• Gloves

• Antiseptic swabs

• Adhesive tape

📋 Records:

• Blood transfusion chart

• Consent form

6. Patient Preparation

• Explain procedure and obtain consent

• Check doctor’s order

• Verify patient identity

• Check blood group and cross-match

• Record baseline vital signs

7. Procedure Steps (Step-by-Step Sentences)

1. Wash hands thoroughly and prepare all articles.

2. Verify doctor’s order and patient identity.

3. Check blood bag details:

   • Blood group

   • Expiry date

   • Cross-match compatibility

4. Inspect blood for any clots or discoloration.

5. Record baseline vital signs (TPR, BP).

6. Insert IV cannula using aseptic technique if not already present.

7. Start IV normal saline.

8. Connect blood transfusion set to blood bag.

9. Prime the tubing with blood to remove air.

10. Attach the transfusion set to IV cannula.

11. Start transfusion slowly (first 15 minutes).

12. Stay with the patient and observe for reactions.

13. Monitor vital signs frequently.

14. Adjust flow rate as prescribed.

15. Complete transfusion within recommended time (usually within 4 hours).

16. Flush line with normal saline after transfusion.

17. Dispose of blood bag as per protocol.

18. Remove gloves and wash hands.

19. Record all details in transfusion chart.

8. Post Procedure Care

• Monitor patient for delayed reactions

• Check vital signs

• Maintain documentation

• Ensure patient comfort

9. Complications

• Transfusion reaction (fever, chills)

• Allergic reaction

• Hemolytic reaction

• Circulatory overload

• Infection

10. Health Education

• Inform patient about procedure

• Report symptoms immediately:

  • Fever

  • Chills

  • Rash

  • Breathlessness

• Importance of blood safety

🎯 Viva Questions

Q1. What is the most serious complication?👉 Hemolytic reaction

Q2. Why is transfusion started slowly?👉 To detect reaction early

Q3. What solution is used with blood transfusion?👉 Normal saline