During a suspected transfusion reaction, what is the recommended approach to IV access?

• A. Stop the transfusion and start a new IV line for saline until evaluation
• B. Keep using the same line and continue transfusion
• C. Remove the IV line and reinsert after evaluation
• D. Do nothing with IV access

Answer: (A)

When a transfusion reaction is suspected, the top priority is to stop the transfusion immediately to prevent further exposure to the donor blood and to begin prompt assessment and management. After stopping, secure reliable venous access for fluids and potential medications and for drawing samples. Starting a new IV line for saline ensures a clean, dependable route that won’t be contaminated by the suspected transfused product and allows you to flush the line, maintain circulation, and obtain labs as needed. Using the same line to continue the transfusion would keep exposing the patient to donor blood and could worsen the reaction, while delaying or delaying removal, reinsertion, or doing nothing would compromise safety and treatment.