What should be monitored closely in a casualty receiving a blood transfusion?

When a casualty is receiving a blood transfusion, it is crucial to closely monitor for signs of an allergic reaction. This is because transfusion reactions, including allergic reactions, can occur when the recipient’s immune system responds to the donor blood as if it were a foreign substance. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include hives, itching, fever, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis. Ensuring prompt recognition of these symptoms is vital for patient safety and can lead to immediate intervention, which may prevent serious complications.

While monitoring vital signs like body temperature, heart rate, and respiration rate is also important during a transfusion for assessing overall patient status, the characteristic signs of allergic reactions are specifically the focus during this procedure. Recognizing an allergic reaction quickly can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of severe complications associated with transfusion-related issues.