Which measures reduce risk of transfusion reactions?

• A. All of the above.
• B. Accurate patient identification only.
• C. Strict crossmatching only.
• D. Close monitoring during transfusion.

Answer: (A)

Ensuring transfusion safety relies on preventing errors at multiple points in the process. Accurate patient identification reduces the risk of giving blood to the wrong person, which is a preventable error with serious consequences. Strict crossmatching confirms compatibility between the donor unit and the recipient, minimizing immune reactions such as acute hemolysis. Close monitoring during the transfusion allows for early detection of any adverse signs—fever, chills, hives, shortness of breath, or instability—so the transfusion can be stopped promptly and appropriate treatment started.

Because each step tackles a different potential failure point, using all of these measures together provides comprehensive protection against transfusion reactions.