Final answer:
In the event of a transfusion reaction, the nurse must immediately stop the transfusion, maintain a patent IV line with saline, monitor vital signs, notify the physician, and send the blood product and a patient's blood sample for laboratory analysis. For patients with unknown blood types in emergency situations, type O blood is transfused due to its universal compatibility.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a transfusion reaction occurs, the first thing a nurse should do is stop the transfusion immediately to prevent further exposure to the incompatible blood. The nurse should then maintain a patent intravenous line with saline to keep the vein open, monitor the patient's vital signs closely, notify the physician, and follow hospital protocols which often involve sending the remaining blood product and a fresh blood sample from the patient to the laboratory for analysis. The laboratory will perform tests, such as a direct antiglobulin test, to confirm the reaction. Prompt identification and management are crucial to prevent serious complications like hemolytic anemia, shock, and kidney damage.
In an emergency, such as following a motor vehicle accident with severe bleeding where there is no time to determine the patient's blood type, type O blood, known as the universal donor, is transfused due to its lack of A and B antigens, reducing the risk of an immediate hypersensitivity reaction.
Understanding the implications on blood supply, especially in times of emergency when blood type cannot be verified, is essential to maintain a safe and sufficient blood reserve in healthcare systems.