What indicates a positive response to a blood transfusion?

A positive response to a blood transfusion is indicated by the increase in hemoglobin levels. When a patient receives a blood transfusion, the goal is often to improve the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. An increase in hemoglobin demonstrates that the transfused red blood cells are effectively entering the circulation and enhancing the patient's ability to transport oxygen. This is crucial, especially in cases of anemia or significant blood loss.

Other indicators of a positive response include improvements in overall clinical symptoms, such as increased energy and resolution of signs of hypoxia. However, directly measuring hemoglobin provides a clear and quantifiable way to assess the efficacy of a transfusion.

The other options do not reflect a typical positive response to a blood transfusion. Decreased blood pressure, decreased heart rate, and cold extremities can indicate various complications or underlying issues and are not reliable indicators of the effectiveness of a transfusion. Increased hemoglobin is distinctly associated with the desired outcome of a successful blood transfusion.