Investigation of adverse transfusion reactions

When a transfusion reaction is suspected, clinicians should report it to the Blood Bank immediately after stabilising the patient.

The Blood Bank will require:

All used and unused blood products and giving sets
Three post-transfusion EDTA samples
A completed adverse transfusion reaction form

Testing includes:

ABO and Rh checks
Antibody screens
Haemolysis checks
Potential bacterial cultures (external laboratory)

The WCBS Immunohaematology Laboratory completes specialist testing. All serious reactions are reviewed by the Lead Medical Consultant and may be escalated to the National Haemovigilance Committee. Final classifications are emailed to clinicians.

Report of a suspected adverse transfusion reaction

For medical support and advice, please contact Dr Caroline Hilton, WCBS Lead Medical Consultant.

Dr Caroline Hilton: Telephone +27 (0)21 507 6441 | Cell 083 282 1612 | Email Caroline@wcbs.org.za

Investigation of Adverse Transfusion Reactions