Administration of Blood Products

Question 1

Packed Red Blood Cells

Answer 1

Used to replace erythrocytes. One unit infuses in 2-4 hours. Each unit replaces 1 g/dL of hemoglobin and 3% hematocrit. Blood levels will change within 4-6 hours after administration.

Question 2

Platelet Tranfusion

Answer 2

Used to treat thrombocytopenia. Volume of each bag varies. Is administered immediately upon receipt and given rapidly over 15-30 minutes. Increases platelets by 5,000-10,00 cells/mm

Question 3

Fresh frozen plasma

Answer 3

Used to provide clotting factors or volume expansion (does not contain any platelets). Infused within 2 hours of thawing, infused over 15-30 minutes. Rhesus and ABO testing is required. Used to improve aPTT and PT values.

Question 4

Cryoprepitates

Answer 4

Made from fresh, frozen plasma. Can be frozen for 1 year. Used to replace clotting factors like factor VIII and fibrinogen.

Question 5

Granulocytes

Answer 5

Used to treat patients with sepsis or an neutropenic client with an infection when antibiotics fail to be effective.

Question 6

Rhesus status - who can receive what

Answer 6

Rh+ patients can receive Rh+ or Rh- blood, but Rh- patients can only receive Rh- blood.

Question 7

Signs of Transfusion reaction

Answer 7

1. Chills and diaphoresis
2. Muscle aches, back and chest pain
3. Rash, hives, swelling and itching
4. Rapid, thready pulse
5. Dyspnea, cough, wheezing
6. Pallor, cyanosis
7. Apprehension
8. Tingling and numbness
9. Headache
10. Nausea, vomiting, abdo cramps and diarrhea.