What are the recommended practices for ensuring the safe administration of blood products in a primary care setting?

Monitor the patient's condition and vital signs before, during, and after blood transfusions to detect acute transfusion reactions that may need immediate investigation and treatment ¹.

Observe patients who are having or have had a blood transfusion in a suitable environment with staff who are able to monitor and manage acute reactions ¹.

Consider using a system that electronically identifies patients to improve the safety and efficiency of the blood transfusion process ¹.

Provide verbal and written information to patients who may have or who have had a transfusion, and their family members or carers (as appropriate), explaining the reason for the transfusion, the risks and benefits, the transfusion process, any transfusion needs specific to them, any alternatives that are available, and how they might reduce their need for a transfusion ¹.

Document discussions in the patient's notes ¹.

Provide the patient and their GP with copies of the discharge summary or other written communication that explains the details of any transfusions they had, the reasons for the transfusion, any adverse events, and that they are no longer eligible to donate blood ¹.