Febrile reactions

Definition

Febrile reactions are acute immune responses characterized by fever that occur after the administration of blood products. These reactions are usually caused by the recipient's antibodies reacting to donor leukocytes or other components.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Febrile reactions are the most common type of transfusion reaction, occurring in about 1-3% of all transfusions.
2. Symptoms typically include a sudden onset of fever, chills, and sometimes headache or nausea within 1-6 hours after transfusion.
3. These reactions can be managed by stopping the transfusion and administering antipyretics such as acetaminophen.
4. The risk of febrile reactions can be reduced by using leukoreduced blood products, which have fewer white blood cells.
5. It's essential for nurses to monitor patients closely during and after a transfusion to quickly identify and manage febrile reactions.

Review Questions

• What is the most common cause of febrile reactions during blood transfusions?
• How can the risk of febrile reactions be minimized when administering blood products?
• What immediate steps should be taken if a patient exhibits signs of a febrile reaction during a transfusion?

Related terms

Leukoreduction: A process that removes white blood cells from donated blood to reduce the risk of immune reactions.

Transfusion Reaction: Any adverse effect that occurs as a result of receiving a blood product.

Antipyretic:

A type of medication used to reduce fever.