In cases of patient transfusion reactions, what is the first step a technician should take?

In cases of patient transfusion reactions, the first step a technician should take is to stop the transfusion. This action is critical because continuing the transfusion can exacerbate the patient's immune response, potentially leading to severe complications. Stopping the transfusion promptly helps to minimize the amount of incompatible blood that may enter the patient, and it allows for the immediate assessment and management of the patient's condition.

Once the transfusion has been stopped, the technician can proceed with other necessary steps, such as notifying a physician, documenting the reaction, and checking the blood type or the blood product involved. However, the priority in a transfusion reaction is always to halt further infusion of blood products to protect the patient's safety.