After collecting the correct unit from the blood fridge, what is the next step?

The next step after collecting the correct unit from the blood fridge is to sign the blood fridge register. This action is crucial as it provides an official record of the blood unit that has been removed from storage. Signing the register ensures accountability and traceability, which are vital in transfusion practices to maintain blood safety and tracking.

By documenting the collection, healthcare professionals can easily verify who accessed the blood product and when it was taken, thereby reducing the risk of errors and ensuring that inventory management remains intact. This recording assists in monitoring the supply of blood products and facilitates audits or investigations if necessary.

The other options do not maintain the same level of criticality in the transfusion process. While notifying the transfusion laboratory is important, it usually occurs after the unit has been prepared for use. Leaving a note in the fridge lacks formal accountability and is not a standard practice. Checking for additional units does not address the immediate necessity of documenting the current unit's collection, which is essential for patient safety and adherence to protocols.