If a transfusion reaction is suspected, what should be done with the remaining blood product and tubing?

• A. Return to blood bank for testing
• B. Discard them immediately
• C. Use for another patient after filtering
• D. Store in freezer for later use

Answer: (A)

Preserving evidence for investigation is essential when a transfusion reaction is suspected. The remaining blood product and the tubing should be returned to the blood bank for testing so they can identify what caused the reaction. The blood bank will review compatibility and labeling, perform posttransfusion serology, and compare donor and patient results to pinpoint whether the issue was an ABO mismatch, antibody reaction, infection, or another error. Keeping the product and tubing intact allows accurate testing and prevents loss of critical evidence. Discarding them, reusing them for another patient, or freezing them would compromise safety and the investigation.