Lecture 7: Blood products

Question 1

What are blood products?

Answer 1

Any product derived from human blood i.e

• RBC, Platelets, Fresh frozen plasma

Question 2

What are the plasma derivatives we obtain from CSL Behring Australia?

Answer 2

• Factor VIII
• Factors II, IX, X
• IV immunoglobulin
• Human Albumin Solution

Question 3

Whats required of donors in NZ?

Answer 3

• Not paid
• Between 16-70
• Good health and Hb check comes back ok + questionaire

Question 4

What is tested for in NZ blood?

Answer 4

• ABO, RHd antibody screen

- Hep B, C, HIV, syphilis

Question 5

Whats the relative storage of blood components?

Answer 5

• Red cells 35 days
• Platelet concentrates, 7 days
• Fresh frozen plasma, 2 years

Question 6

What should be considered when deciding on RBC transfusion?

Answer 6

• Signs and symptoms of hypoxia
• Ongoing blood loss
• The risk of anaemia to the pt
• The risk of transfusion

Question 7

What are specific factors to consider for RBC transfusion?

Answer 7

• Patients cardiopulmonary reserve (pulmonary issues might warrant transfusion)
• Volume of blood loss (Pre, during and post surgery to maintain blood volume)
• Oxygen consumption (Increased demand might warrant transfusion)
• Atherosclerotic disease (Critical arterial stenosis to major organs warrants consideration)

Question 8

How does Hb level influence transfusion?

Answer 8

Depending on patients other symptoms and health state will determine if Hb level warrants a transfusion

Question 9

In NZ what are platelet concentrations derived from?

Answer 9

Group O and group A donors

Question 10

What are indications for platelet transfusions?

Answer 10

Bone marrow failure (context dependent)
Surgery/invasive procedure
Platelet function disorder
Bleeding
Massive hemorrhage/ transfusion

Question 11

When is fresh frozen plasma indicated?

Answer 11

• Replacement of single factor deficiencies where a specific or combined factor concentrate is not avail
• IMMEDIATE REVERSAL OF WARFARIN EFFECT (life threatening situation)
• Treatment of multiple coagulation deficiencies associate with acute DIC
• Treatment of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
• In bleeding patients with abnormal coagulation parameters undergoing major surgery

Question 12

What is FFP not appropriate for?

Answer 12

• Use as a volume expander in cases of hypovolaemia
• Plasma exchange procedures
• treatment of immunodeficiency states