During the administration of blood products, what should a nurse closely monitor for?

Monitoring for signs of transfusion reactions, such as fever, chills, or hives, is crucial during the administration of blood products. Transfusion reactions can occur due to various reasons, including allergic responses, hemolytic reactions, or infections. Symptoms can manifest suddenly, and early recognition is vital in ensuring patient safety. If a nurse observes any signs of a transfusion reaction, prompt intervention can help manage the reaction and prevent serious complications.

Changes in the patient's weight, diet and nutritional intake, and time spent in the infusion room are not immediate indicators of transfusion-related issues. While these factors may be important for overall patient care and management, they do not provide real-time information about the patient's response to the blood product being administered. Therefore, focusing on potential transfusion reactions takes precedence during this critical time.