During a transfusion reaction, what is the first action the nurse should take?

• A. Stop the blood infusion
• B. Notify the physician immediately
• C. Start a normal saline infusion
• D. Prepare a new unit of blood

Answer: (A)

The first action is to stop the transfusion immediately. Halting the infusion stops further exposure to the donor blood and can prevent the reaction from worsening, which is the highest priority when a transfusion reaction is suspected. After stopping, the nurse would typically keep IV access open with normal saline to support circulation and promptly notify the physician and the blood bank for further orders and testing, while continuing to monitor the patient. Replacing the unit or restarting a new unit should not be done until the reaction is assessed and deemed safe.