Which action should be taken first when a transfusion reaction is suspected?

• A. Stop the transfusion
• B. Notify the physician
• C. Start saline infusion
• D. Obtain a new blood sample to lab assess.

Answer: (A)

The first action when a transfusion reaction is suspected is to stop the transfusion immediately. Halting the donor product exposure protects the patient from ongoing or worsening reaction, which can escalate into serious complications like anaphylaxis or hemolysis. Once the infusion is stopped, you would keep the IV line open with normal saline to ensure venous access for potential meds or fluids, and then promptly notify the physician or transfusion service and monitor the patient. Sending the blood product, the infusion records, and any required labs for evaluation follows as part of the standard investigation, but stopping the transfusion is the crucial first step.