Following a transfusion there is a very small risk of developing a delayed transfusion reaction. This leaflet aims to tell you who to contact if such a reaction should occur, once you have left hospital.
Delayed reactions are usually mild in nature and cause very few problems but it’s important to report to your doctor or nurse any unusual or unexpected symptoms which develop within 24 hours of completion of the transfusion (BSH, 2012/2017).
Most delayed reactions occur within 24 hours of the transfusion but can, very occasionally, develop up to 14 days later.
If you unexpectedly experience any of the following symptoms:
- A high temperature (especially above 5 0C)
- Shivering or cold chills (rigors)
- Breathing problems
- Blood in urine
- Itchy skin, rash or nettle rash (hives/urticaria)
- Jaundice (yellow colour in the white of eyes)
- Passing much less, or very dark, urine please ring the following number for advice:
Department: ………………………………………………… Tel. No: …………………………..……………………………
It is important that possible transfusion reactions are reported so they can be treated appropriately and quickly if necessary.
In the rare event of an emergency, if you are unable to make contact with your hospital team, please contact your GP as soon as possible for advice.
If you would like to have further information or advice about this, or other aspects of blood transfusion, please feel free to discuss this with your doctor or nurse.