During a platelet transfusion, what is an important action for the nurse to monitor?

During a platelet transfusion, monitoring the client’s temperature is crucial as it can help identify potential transfusion reactions. Platelet transfusions, like other blood product transfusions, pose risks, including febrile non-hemolytic reactions or more serious immune and allergic reactions. An increase in body temperature often serves as an early sign of such reactions, allowing for prompt intervention.

While it's also important to be aware of fluid intake and output, manage anxiety levels, and ensure the client understands the procedure, these actions are not directly tied to immediate physiological responses during the transfusion. Monitoring temperature specifically addresses the acute risks associated with transfusions, enabling the healthcare provider to respond quickly if a transfusion reaction occurs. Thus, it is critical to prioritize temperature checks throughout the procedure.