What is not included in the preliminary evaluation of a transfusion reaction?

What is not included in the preliminary evaluation of a transfusion reaction?

• A. Check pre- and post-transfusion samples for color of serum
• B. Perform ABO and Rh recheck
• C. DAT on the post-transfusion sample
• D. Panel on pre- and post-transfusion samples

Answer: (D)

The preliminary evaluation of a transfusion reaction typically focuses on the most immediate and critical assessments that can help determine the cause of the reaction. This usually includes checking pre- and post-transfusion samples for the color of the serum to look for hemolysis, performing an ABO and Rh recheck to verify blood compatibility, and conducting a Direct Antiglobulin Test (DAT) on the post-transfusion sample to detect any immune-mediated hemolysis. In contrast, performing a panel on pre- and post-transfusion samples is not typically part of the preliminary evaluation. This step is generally more detailed and time-consuming, often conducted later in the investigation to further identify or confirm the cause of the reaction. A panel involves testing the samples against various known blood group antigens and is therefore more appropriate after initial assessments have been completed and further clarification is needed. This distinction makes it clear why a transfusion reaction panel is not included in the preliminary evaluation, which emphasizes immediate, essential evaluations.

The preliminary evaluation of a transfusion reaction typically focuses on the most immediate and critical assessments that can help determine the cause of the reaction. This usually includes checking pre- and post-transfusion samples for the color of the serum to look for hemolysis, performing an ABO and Rh recheck to verify blood compatibility, and conducting a Direct Antiglobulin Test (DAT) on the post-transfusion sample to detect any immune-mediated hemolysis.

In contrast, performing a panel on pre- and post-transfusion samples is not typically part of the preliminary evaluation. This step is generally more detailed and time-consuming, often conducted later in the investigation to further identify or confirm the cause of the reaction. A panel involves testing the samples against various known blood group antigens and is therefore more appropriate after initial assessments have been completed and further clarification is needed. This distinction makes it clear why a transfusion reaction panel is not included in the preliminary evaluation, which emphasizes immediate, essential evaluations.