What should a nurse monitor for after administering blood transfusion?

After administering a blood transfusion, it is essential for the nurse to closely monitor for signs of transfusion reactions. This is because transfusion reactions can occur due to various reasons such as ABO incompatibility, allergic reactions, or other immune responses, which can lead to serious complications.

Signs of transfusion reactions can manifest in several ways, including fever, chills, hives, itching, back pain, or respiratory distress. Prompt recognition and intervention are crucial in managing any adverse effects that may arise during or after the transfusion process. Monitoring for these signs allows the healthcare provider to take immediate action to ensure patient safety, such as stopping the transfusion and administering appropriate medications if needed.

The other options mentioned do not directly relate to immediate post-transfusion monitoring priorities. Weight loss and increased appetite are not typically concerns prompted by blood transfusions. Decreased urine output may be relevant in certain contexts but is not a primary indicator of transfusion reactions. Therefore, vigilance for signs of transfusion reactions stands out as the most critical aspect of patient monitoring following a blood transfusion.