Blood Transfusion Flashcards
What is the purpose of transfusing red blood cells?
Carry oxygen around the body. Transfused to increase oxygen carrying capacity in anaemic patients e.g. acute blood loss
What is the purpose of transfusing plasma?
Increases clotting factor levels in patients with demonstrated deficiency. Helps recover and prevents infection
What is the purpose of transfusing platelets?
To increase blood clotting and control and prevent bleeding associated with deficiencies in platelet number and function
What is the purpose of transfusing cryoprecipitate?
To assist with blood clotting
How quickly should you transfuse RBC’s?
Over 2 - 3 hours (stat in emergency)
How quickly should you transfuse plasma?
Over 1 hour (stat in emergency)
How quickly should you transfuse platelets?
Over 30 minutes (stat in emergency)
How quickly should you transfuse cryoprecipitate?
Over 30 minutes (stat in emergency)
How much is 1 unit of blood?
Approx 470ml
What do you prime a blood transfusion line with?
only 0.9% sodium chloride
How often do you do observations for with a transfusion?
- 45 minutes prior to transfusion
- 15 minutes after transfusion commenced (remain with them in room for first 15 minutes)
- 30 minutes after transfusion commenced
- every 60 minutes until finished
- observe for 30 minutes after transfusion finished
In what timeframe must the transfusion of 1 unit be completed in?
Within 4 hours of leaving the blood bank
How long after blood leaving the blood bank must the transfusion commence?
Within 30 minutes of leaving the blood bank. Blood can be returned to the blood refrigerator if out less than 30 minutes, must be returned to be disposed of if out for longer
What is the universal donor blood group?
O negative
What is the universal blood acceptor blood group?
O positive
