Question

"A patient receiving a transfusion of packed red blood cells

begins to vomit. Her blood pressure falls to 92/48 mm Hg from a
baseline of 123/80 mm Hg. Her temperature is 100.7 °F from a
baseline of 99"

Answer 1

When a patient receiving a packed red blood cell transfusion vomits and experiences a drop in blood pressure, it may be a transfusion reaction called hemolytic transfusion reaction. This reaction can lead to symptoms such as fever, chills, itching, hives, dyspnea, hemoglobinuria, and hypotension. Prompt identification and management are crucial to prevent serious complications.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient receiving a transfusion of packed red blood cells begins to vomit and experiences a drop in blood pressure, it may be a result of a transfusion reaction. In a transfusion reaction, the body's immune system reacts to the transfused blood, leading to a potentially life-threatening condition called hemolytic transfusion reaction (HTR). The symptoms of HTR include fever, chills, itching, hives, dyspnea, hemoglobinuria, and hypotension. In severe cases, shock, multi-organ failure, and death can occur.

In this case, the drop in blood pressure from 123/80 mm Hg to 92/48 mm Hg is a clear indication of hypotension, which can be caused by the hemolytic transfusion reaction. The vomiting and elevated temperature may also be associated with the immune response to the transfused blood.

It is important to promptly identify and manage a transfusion reaction, as it can lead to serious complications. Treatment for HTR includes stopping the transfusion, providing supportive care, and initiating appropriate medical interventions to stabilize the patient.