Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) Certification Practice Test

Which type of reaction can result from an allergic response during transfusion?

1. Acute Hemolytic Transfusion Reaction

2. Anaphylactic Shock

3. Febrile Nonhemolytic Transfusion Reaction

4. Vascular Collapse Reaction

The correct answer is: Febrile Nonhemolytic Transfusion Reaction

An allergic response during a transfusion is most commonly associated with a Febrile Nonhemolytic Transfusion Reaction. This type of reaction often occurs due to the recipient's immune response to white blood cells, platelets, or plasma proteins in the transfused blood products. Symptoms can include fever, chills, and discomfort, which are generally mild and can typically be managed with antipyretics. In allergic responses, specifically, they may present with signs such as hives or itching, but these would be more characteristic of a mild allergic reaction rather than a full-blown febrile response, which can also be triggered by similar components in the transfusion. It's essential to evaluate the patient's history and symptoms to distinguish the nature of the reaction accurately and provide appropriate care. In contrast, acute hemolytic transfusion reactions stem from an incompatibility between the donor blood and the recipient's antibody response, leading to the destruction of red blood cells and more severe symptoms, including fever, back pain, and dark urine. Anaphylactic shock is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that may occur in susceptible patients; although significant, it is different from fever and not the typical result of transfusion-related allergic reactions. Vascular collapse is a severe condition