Usual cause
Rapid infusion of large volumes of cold blood can depress the body temperature and result in metabolic complications such as acidosis, hyperkalaemia, hypocalcaemia etc. Rarely seen outside the massive transfusion setting.
Incidence
Variable.
Main clinical features
Depends on clinical situation. Risk of cardiac arrhythmia or cardiac arrest. Symptoms of hypocalcaemia.
Investigation
Electrolyte analysis. Cardiac monitoring.
Intervention
Slow rate of infusion. Use of blood warmer where appropriate. Use of fresh blood