Multiple blood transfusions have been given to a patient with massive blood loss following a motor vehicle crash. Which of the following electrolyte abnormalities should a nurse anticipate?
Stored blood containscitrate, an anticoagulant that bindsionized calcium, leading tohypocalcemiawith multiple transfusions. This can causetetany, arrhythmias, and hypotensionif not corrected.
“Massive transfusion can cause hypocalcemia due to citrate toxicity. Monitoring ionized calcium is essential during and after blood product administration.”
(Referenced from CCRN Pediatric – Direct Care: Hematologic Emergencies and Transfusion Management)
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