Which solution is most appropriate to administer with blood or blood products?

The administration of blood or blood products requires a compatible solution to maintain blood component integrity and prevent potential reactions. Normal saline is the most appropriate solution for this purpose because it is isotonic and can be safely infused alongside blood without causing hemolysis or altering the osmotic balance.

Normal saline, which is a 0.9% sodium chloride solution, matches the osmolarity of blood, making it safe for use in conjunction with blood products. It helps to maintain vascular volume, allows the blood cells to remain suspended, and provides a compatible environment for the transfusion process.

Other solutions, such as whole plasma or 5% dextrose in water, can lead to complications if administered with blood products. Whole plasma is not commonly used for this purpose, while 5% dextrose can cause hemolysis due to its hypotonic nature, which may lead to cell rupture. Similarly, 0.45% normal saline is also hypotonic and poses similar risks. Therefore, normal saline is the correct choice when administering blood or blood products, ensuring safety and efficacy during the transfusion process.