How long after an exchange transfusion should you check the patients hemoglobin?
On One Hand: Check the Hemoglobin Right AwayAs soon as a transfusion is complete, the hemoglobin level will indicate the percentage of oxygen-carrying red cells that are currently circulating. If the patient is hemorrhaging, it will be an indication of how many units of blood will be needed to bring the hemoglobin up to the normal reference range which is 12 to 14 percent.On the Other: Check the Hemoglobin Level in 30 MinutesIf a patient is not hemorrhaging, allowing the hemoglobin level to stabilize will be beneficial in tracking the effectiveness of the transfusion.Bottom LineAlways check the hemoglobin level as soon as possible after a transfusion to check the amount of circulating oxygen carrying cells.