Definition
Pulmonary oedema/ respiratory compromise due to volume overload - develops within 12 hours of transfusion.
Can occur after transfusion of relatively small volumes if there are patient risk factors.
Frequency
Rare (≥1/10,000 to <1/1,000), however it is thought to be under-reported.
TACO is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality related to transfusion.
Reducing the risk
Ideally all patients (particularly those >50 years) should have a TACO risk assessment before transfusion.
Mitigating measures include:
• prescribing by volume (mL) rather than in units [this is essential in neonatal/paediatric patients]
• use of diuretics
• transfusing slowly with closer monitoring
Further information/ resources
SHOT TACO checklist
SHOT data/ resources