Which nursing action is appropriate for monitoring a client after blood transfusion?

Monitoring for allergic reactions after a blood transfusion is critical because transfusion reactions can occur due to the recipient's immune system responding to antigens present in the donor blood. This response may lead to symptoms such as fever, chills, rash, itching, or even more severe responses like anaphylaxis. The need for close observation ensures that any adverse reactions are identified and treated promptly, thus safeguarding the client's health.

While checking for signs of fluid overload is important, it may not encompass the immediate and specific risks associated with transfusion reactions. Monitoring for fever every 30 minutes is not typically needed unless there are indications of a transfusion reaction; standard practice often involves checking vital signs more frequently right after the initiation of the transfusion, then at predetermined intervals. Estimating blood pressure manually is less reliable compared to using more accurate electronic methods and does not directly address the critical need to assess for potential allergic reactions during and shortly after the transfusion process.

Thus, prioritizing observation for allergic reactions aligns with best practices for ensuring patient safety during blood transfusions.