If the designated person to check a unit of packed RBCs is unavailable for an hour, what is the best course of action?

The best course of action in this scenario is to return the blood to the blood bank until a designated person is available to check the unit of packed RBCs. This is essential because blood transfusions involve critical safety protocols, including verifying that the blood product is appropriate for the patient, ensuring compatibility, and confirming that the correct blood type is being administered. If the designated person is unavailable, it is important to avoid administering the blood until all safety checks are completed, thereby reducing the risk of complications or transfusion reactions.

Returning the blood to the blood bank ensures that it can be stored properly while maintaining the integrity of the blood components until they can be checked by the appropriate personnel. This action aligns with established protocols to guarantee patient safety. Additionally, it prevents any possibility of administering the blood without the required verification, which is crucial in transfusion medicine.