During transfusion a patient developed pain in the area of the needle, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.What is the most likely cause?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described are consistent with an acute hemolytic transfusion reaction, which is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication of blood transfusion. This occurs when there is a mismatch between the donor and recipient blood types, leading to the destruction of red blood cells and release of hemoglobin into the bloodstream, causing pain, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and other symptoms. Immediate cessation of the transfusion and treatment for shock may be necessary. Option A is less likely as there is no mention of risk factors or symptoms of heart attack. Option C (transfusion-related acute lung injury) would present with respiratory distress within 6 hours of transfusion but the pain mentioned in this scenario is uncommon. Option D (anaphylactic) is also unlikely as the description does not fit with the presentation of anaphylaxis.

During Transfusion a Patient Developed Pain in the Area of the Needle