Which transfusion reaction is most likely in a client who develops fever, chills, and red-tinged urine shortly after starting a blood transfusion?

The development of fever, chills, and red-tinged urine shortly after starting a blood transfusion is indicative of a hemolytic transfusion reaction. This type of reaction occurs when the recipient’s immune system attacks the transfused red blood cells, often due to ABO incompatibility. The immune response triggers the release of antibodies that destroy the transfused cells, leading to symptoms such as fever and chills, which are common manifestations of a systemic inflammatory response.

The presence of red-tinged urine is particularly significant as it suggests hemoglobinuria, which occurs when hemoglobin from lysed red blood cells enters the urine. This finding is typical in hemolytic reactions and helps differentiate this type of reaction from others. Other symptoms may include back pain and tachycardia, further reinforcing the severe nature of this reaction.

The other types of reactions mentioned are less likely given the symptom profile presented. A febrile reaction, while it does involve fever, typically does not lead to red-tinged urine. An allergic reaction would present more with hives or itching rather than fever and urine changes. Acute pain is not a standard classification of transfusion reactions and does not fit the symptomatology described. These distinctions help clarify why a hemolytic