Blood Transfusion

Question 1

Why is blood transfusion used?

Answer 1

• Anaemia- Due to blood loss (Regenerative – haemorrhage, haemolysis)
  (Non-regenerative - Due to failure of production)
• Coagulopathy when there is active bleeding
• Thrombocytopaenia

Question 2

What are the requirements for blood donors?

Answer 2

• Fully vaccinated & reg wormed
• Health, fit adult (1 – 8yrs)
• Dogs>25kg, cats>4kg, BCS 4-6/9
• Normal PCV & blood tests
• Not have travelled abroad
• No infectious disease, cats, –ve FIV, -FeLV, FIP, toxoplasma, Mycoplasma haemofelis
• No sub-clinical renal disease
• Not on medication
• Good temperament
• Blood typed (or typed on collection)

Question 3

What are the maximum blood collection volumes for dogs and cats?

Answer 3

20% of their total blood volume.

Max 11ml/kg in cats
Max 18ml/kg in dog

Question 4

How would the donor be monitored after blood donation?

Answer 4

Check and record patients demeanour, pulse rate, pulse quality, and mucous membrane colour.

Allow them to sit up slowly and lift them onto the floor.

Continue to monitor for 10-15 minutes and offer them a drink of water and a small meal of food.

Lead walk only for 24 hours. Use a harness instead of collar/lead.

Question 5

What are the storage requirements for blood?

Answer 5

If not used immediately blood should be stored at 4°C in a temperature controlled fridge.

Longer storage:
- Plasma may be frozen within one hour at -18°c for under one year (FFP)

• Plasma frozen for over a year – frozen plasma (FP)
• Cells can be refrigerated for three months