During the transfusion, how frequently should vital signs be monitored in the first 15 minutes?

During the transfusion, how frequently should vital signs be monitored in the first 15 minutes?

• A. Every 15 minutes
• B. Every minute
• C. Every 5 minutes
• D. Every 30 minutes

Answer: (C)

The most critical moment for catching transfusion reactions is the first 15 minutes, when signs can develop quickly. Monitoring vital signs every 5 minutes during this period allows you to detect early changes—such as fever, chills, a rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, or shortness of breath—and stop the transfusion promptly if needed. Checking more frequently, like every minute, is unnecessary and disruptive, while waiting 15 minutes or longer could miss a developing reaction. Every 30 minutes would be too infrequent to ensure patient safety in this high-risk window.

The most critical moment for catching transfusion reactions is the first 15 minutes, when signs can develop quickly. Monitoring vital signs every 5 minutes during this period allows you to detect early changes—such as fever, chills, a rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, or shortness of breath—and stop the transfusion promptly if needed. Checking more frequently, like every minute, is unnecessary and disruptive, while waiting 15 minutes or longer could miss a developing reaction. Every 30 minutes would be too infrequent to ensure patient safety in this high-risk window.