CLINICAL - Administering Blood Products

Question 1

Describe how to correctly administer blood products

Answer 1

1. Place an intravenous (IV) catheter into a peipheral vein. If venous access cannot be gained, an introsseous catheter can be used
2. Warm the blood to room temperature (do not microwave)
3. Run the blood through the giving set which has a special in-line filter, and visually inspect the blood for clots
4. The patient should be on a comfortable bed confined to a cage and should receive no food or medication during the transfusion
5. Blood and blood products can be safely administered via ceryain types of infusion pumps and syringe drivers

Question 2

What size IV catheter should use for administering blood products and why?

Answer 2

You should use a catheter larger then 22 gauge if possible to avoid haemolysis

Question 3

What is the purpose of the in-line filter in the giving sets used for administering blood products?

Answer 3

The in-line filter removes any cellular aggregates and micro-thrombi

Question 4

Why is it important to warm blood products before transfusing them?

Answer 4

Warming blood products reduces their viscosity and, prevents patients from rapidly cooling, and minimises vasoconstriction

Question 5

Why do you have to you use warmed blood products within 24 hours?

Answer 5

The warming process will promote bacterial growth so the blood products have to be used within 24 hours

Question 6

How is the dose of blood transfusion calculated?

Answer 6

k = 90 for dogs
k = 60 for cats