What should a nurse do if a child shows signs of a reaction during a blood transfusion?

When a child shows signs of a reaction during a blood transfusion, the most critical step is to stop the transfusion immediately and notify the healthcare provider. This action is essential because reactions can range from mild allergic responses to severe reactions like hemolytic transfusion reactions, which can be life-threatening.

Stopping the transfusion minimizes further exposure to the potentially dangerous blood product and allows the healthcare team to assess the situation and initiate appropriate interventions, such as administering medications to treat the reaction or providing supportive care. Notifying the healthcare provider is crucial as they can guide the next steps based on the child's condition and the nature of the reaction.

In this context, other options could contribute to worsening the child's condition. Continuing or slowing the transfusion when a reaction is occurring could expose the child to additional risks. Starting another IV of dextrose does not address the immediate problem, as the key priority is managing the transfusion reaction. Therefore, the correct course of action prioritizes patient safety and timely medical intervention.