What is a common nursing intervention for a patient receiving a blood transfusion?

Monitoring the patient closely for at least the first 15 minutes is essential during a blood transfusion because this is the period when most transfusion reactions are likely to occur. Early detection of any adverse responses, such as allergic reactions or hemolytic reactions, is crucial for patient safety. During this time, the nurse should assess the patient's vital signs, observe for any signs of discomfort, fever, chills, or other abnormal symptoms, and be prepared to take immediate action if a reaction is noted. This proactive monitoring enables timely interventions, potentially saving the patient's life and minimizing complications.

Other approaches, such as administering the blood over a specific time frame or reducing checks on vital signs, could compromise patient safety and response readiness in case of a reaction. Ensuring that vital signs are monitored regularly and attentively, particularly during the initial phase of transfusion, is a key nursing responsibility that supports safe patient care.