What kind of reaction should be monitored during the administration of Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP)?

When Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) is administered, it is crucial to monitor for acute hemolytic reactions. This type of reaction can occur if the recipient's immune system recognizes the red blood cell antigens present in the transfused plasma as foreign, leading to the destruction of red blood cells. FFP contains various components, including clotting factors and proteins, and it is derived from whole blood.

During transfusion, the plasma can have residual red blood cells or antibodies that may trigger an immune response, particularly if the donor and recipient blood types are not compatible. Symptoms of an acute hemolytic reaction may include fever, chills, back pain, dark urine, and hypotension.

This monitoring is particularly important because acute hemolytic reactions can lead to significant complications, including renal failure, shock, or even death if not identified and treated quickly. While other reactions like allergic reactions and infectious complications are also important to monitor, the risk of acute hemolytic reactions is specifically associated with FFP transfusions and emphasizes the urgent need for careful blood type matching and crossmatching prior to administration.