Blood transfusions can only be administered with which IV fluid?

• A. Lactated Ringer's
• B. 5% Dextrose in Water
• C. Normal Saline
• D. Half-normal Saline

Answer: (C)

When giving a blood transfusion, you want an IV fluid that is compatible with the blood and won’t alter the cells or the anticoagulant used in the stored product. Normal saline is isotonic with plasma and does not contain calcium or dextrose, so it remains stable with transfused blood and won’t promote hemolysis or clotting.

Lactated Ringer’s contains calcium, which can interact with the citrate anticoagulant in the blood product and potentially promote clotting or other reactions. Dextrose-containing fluids (like 5% D5W) can be metabolized to become hypotonic, posing a risk of red blood cell damage. Half-normal saline is hypotonic relative to plasma and can cause cells to swell and hemolyze.

So, normal saline is the safest, most compatible choice for administering with a blood transfusion.