Question

Which of these regarding transfusion tubing is false?

A) Most tubing filters are designed to transfuse 2-4 RBC units before they need changed.
B) The tubing in the OR typically has a Y connector with two separate "spikes" so that a unit or fluid can be prepared on one spike while the other is being actively used for transfusion or fluid administration.
C) Some pediatrics sets come with buretrol in which the provider can measure out a specific amount of blood product or fluid.
D) After multiple RBC units have been transfused, the entire tubing setup should be replaced so as to prevent possible machine malfunctions.
E) In-line heated tubing is used to warm the blood products during transfusion.

Answer 1

D) After multiple RBC units have been transfused, the entire tubing setup should be replaced so as to prevent possible machine malfunctions.

The false statement about transfusion tubing is that it must be replaced after multiple RBC units have been transfused to prevent machine malfunctions, as filters are designed for multiple uses.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that is false regarding transfusion tubing is D) After multiple RBC units have been transfused, the entire tubing setup should be replaced so as to prevent possible machine malfunctions. Generally, transfusion tubing does not need to be replaced after each unit unless there is a specific indication to do so, such as contamination or if the maximum number of units for a particular filter has been reached. Most filters are designed to be used for the transfusion of 2-4 RBC units. The tubing in the operating room (OR) typically features a Y connector for efficiency, and some pediatric sets have a buretrol to control the volume of fluids or blood products given to young patients. In-line heated tubing is indeed used to warm the blood products during transfusion to maintain the appropriate temperature.