What is the primary reason for infusing blood at a controlled rate of 60 mL/hour?

Infusing blood at a controlled rate of 60 mL/hour is primarily done to prevent fluid volume overload. This controlled infusion rate allows healthcare professionals to monitor the patient closely for any signs of adverse reactions while ensuring that the total volume of fluid administered does not exceed the patient’s cardiovascular capacity.

Rapid infusion of blood can overwhelm the circulatory system, particularly in patients with compromised heart function or those at risk for fluid overload. Slow infusion rates help minimize the risk of occurrences such as congestive heart failure or pulmonary edema, where excess fluid in the body can lead to serious complications.

While other concerns like emboli formation, red blood cell hemolysis, and allergic reactions are relevant when administering blood, they are not the primary reason for the controlled infusion rate in this context. The focus here is on managing the patient’s overall fluid balance effectively to maintain safety during the blood transfusion.