Blood transfusion: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   After leaving, seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, collapse, confusion, blue or grey lips, or swelling of the face or tongue.

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   During a transfusion, tell staff immediately about any new symptom.

   Do not wait for it to settle.

   Contact your healthcare team urgently for fever, shaking chills, worsening shortness of breath, dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, very little urine, a spreading rash, or increasing back or chest pain.

   These problems can occur hours or days later.

   Seek advice sooner for IV-site bruising that is enlarging, painful, hot, or swollen.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Contact the team if expected symptoms are not improving, tiredness is worsening, or you have questions about follow-up tests.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Blood transfusion. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.