Preparing red cells for Peter Lawson
RN OSCE practice station

The task

Peter Lawson, 58, has a prescription for one unit of red cells for symptomatic anaemia in ED. The unit is at his bedside after collection from the blood refrigerator. Prepare for transfusion: complete bedside checks with Alex, speak with Peter and act on your findings. Record your actions in the transfusion record. Dr Taylor Singh is reachable by phone.

What this station tests

• Calculate completion from removal from controlled storage, not from the time you reach the bedside.
• A labelled expiry does not remove the separate four-hour administration limit.
• Only a signed revised prescription within storage and completion requirements can change the duration; the nurse must not shorten it independently.
• Start blood as soon as possible after removal from controlled storage; report an avoidable storage delay through the incident process.

Sources for the clinical content

• Australian Red Cross Lifeblood: Administration
• Australian Red Cross Lifeblood: Monitoring and observation
• Australian Red Cross Lifeblood: Monitoring wastage and correct handling

An original practice scenario with invented patients. Not an exam question.

Practise next

• Preparing to start a red cell transfusion
• Rigors and hypotension during red cells
• An identifier mismatch before outreach transfusion
• A patient withdraws consent before transfusion
• Breathlessness during a red cell transfusion