Complications of Blood Transfusion

This critical topic provides a systematic overview of the acute and delayed complications associated with blood transfusion, a vital area of study for all tertiary healthcare students in Zambia. It covers the pathophysiology, recognition, and management of reactions ranging from common febrile non-hemolytic and allergic reactions to life-threatening events like Acute Hemolytic Transfusion Reactions (AHTR), Transfusion-Related Acute Lung Injury (TRALI), and Graft-versus-Host Disease (GVHD). Students will learn the immediate clinical actions required upon suspicion of a reaction, the laboratory investigations needed for confirmation, and the specific risks related to massive transfusion and bacterial contamination. This knowledge is indispensable for promoting patient safety, developing robust hospital transfusion policies, and fulfilling the clinical governance responsibilities expected of diploma and degree-holding nurses, doctors, and laboratory staff in Zambian medical institutions.