Pharmacology Proctored ATI Practice Exam

Acute hemolytic reactions are severe and potentially life-threatening immune responses to incompatible blood transfusions. In these reactions, the body detects foreign blood cells and attacks them, causing them to break down (hemolyze) and release a protein called hemoglobin. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including fever and hypotension (low blood pressure). However, the hallmark manifestation of acute hemolytic reactions is low back pain, which is caused by the breakdown of red blood cells in the kidneys leading to decreased blood flow and oxygen to the muscles in the lower back. Increased urination is not a common manifestation of acute hemolytic reactions, and it is not specific to this condition.