BRBC administration errors

[LilFoot56RN]

I know the obvious when administering PRBC, always give via a Y line and hang with NS. What if PRBC were hung and administered with D5NS instead? What possible adverse reactions can occur or should be looked out for? This recently occurred in the facility I work at and although per the blood bank and the doctor, it was would be ok (not ideal) and not a major cause for concern if the patient was symptomatic. But what are symptomatic reactions? I'm a new nurse in a facility in which the RN is scrutinize of every detail.

For future reference and peace of mind, what are things too look out for in the post administration period?

~ LilFoot56RN

[ckh23, BSN, RN]

D5NS wouldn't cause the reaction compared to NS they are the same expect one has dextrose.

As far as blood transfusion reactions you could see a range of symptoms depending on how bad the reaction is. Types of reactions can be SOB, tachycardia, fever, pain, pulmonary edema, chest pain, etc.

You want to have a good baseline of the pt prior to transfusion so that you can spot any changes, even the subtle ones.

http://www.health-disease.org/immune-disorders/blood-transfusion-reaction.htm

[brownbook]

Similar post was in Allnurses back in October with good answers. Put hanging blood with wrong fluid in the search box and you will find what would happen.

[LilFoot56RN]

Thanks for the info. It's a bit, just a bit reassuring knowing that, although an error, should not pose as great a threat as if given with d5. Word to the wise, ALWAYS DOUBLE CHECK something initiated by another party. This why I've come to hate change of shift admissions from the ED or from any floor for that matter- things get initiated and errors made. Sometimes we can catch them as near misses and in this case post occurrence.

Thank you again.

[Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN]

Google it........http://tinyurl.com/3nnx5wo

Blood transfusions are serious business and should be closley scrutinized before during and after the transfusion. YOu can have a reaction up to 72 hourspost transfusion

http://www.scbcinfo.org/publications/bulletin_v3_n1.htm

YOu can also go to Red Cross blood Bank for further referances..