What is the appropriate fluid for a blood transfusion?

What is the appropriate fluid for a blood transfusion?

• A. Isotonic 0.9 NaCl
• B. Dextrose
• C. Lactated Ringer
• D. D5W

Answer: (A)

The appropriate fluid for a blood transfusion is isotonic 0.9% sodium chloride (NaCl). This solution is known as normal saline and is specifically designed to maintain proper osmotic balance when administering blood products. Using isotonic saline helps to ensure that the blood cells do not undergo hemolysis or swelling when they are introduced into the circulation. It aids in proper blood volume expansion and maintains the integrity of red blood cells during the transfusion process. Other fluids listed, such as dextrose, lactated Ringer's, and D5W (5% dextrose in water), are not ideal for blood transfusions. Dextrose solutions can cause hemolysis of red blood cells due to their hypotonic nature, which can lead to complications during transfusion. Lactated Ringer's, while useful in certain clinical situations, also contains potassium and calcium, which can interact adversely with blood products. D5W is a hypotonic solution that can dilute the blood too much, potentially leading to complications as well. In summary, isotonic 0.9% NaCl is the safest and most appropriate fluid to use during blood transfusions, ensuring optimal compatibility and safety for the patient.

The appropriate fluid for a blood transfusion is isotonic 0.9% sodium chloride (NaCl). This solution is known as normal saline and is specifically designed to maintain proper osmotic balance when administering blood products.

Using isotonic saline helps to ensure that the blood cells do not undergo hemolysis or swelling when they are introduced into the circulation. It aids in proper blood volume expansion and maintains the integrity of red blood cells during the transfusion process.

Other fluids listed, such as dextrose, lactated Ringer's, and D5W (5% dextrose in water), are not ideal for blood transfusions. Dextrose solutions can cause hemolysis of red blood cells due to their hypotonic nature, which can lead to complications during transfusion. Lactated Ringer's, while useful in certain clinical situations, also contains potassium and calcium, which can interact adversely with blood products. D5W is a hypotonic solution that can dilute the blood too much, potentially leading to complications as well.

In summary, isotonic 0.9% NaCl is the safest and most appropriate fluid to use during blood transfusions, ensuring optimal compatibility and safety for the patient.