Uses of blood fractions

Question 1

Packed red cells

Answer 1

Transfusion in chronic anaemia and cases where infusion of large volumes of fluid may result in cardiovascular compromise

Question 2

Platelet rich plasma

Answer 2

Patients who are thrombocytopaenic and are bleeding or require surgery

Question 3

Platelet concentrate

Answer 3

Patients with thrombocytopaenia

Question 4

Fresh frozen plasma - what does it contain, volume of 1 unit, uses, usual dose, contraindication

Answer 4

Contains clotting factors, albumin and immunoglobulin.
1 Unit is usually 200 to 250ml.
Used in correcting clotting deficiencies in patients with hepatic synthetic failure who are due to undergo surgery.
Usual dose is 12-15ml/Kg.
Should not be used as first line therapy for hypovolaemia.

Question 5

Cryoprecipitate - what does it contain, uses

Answer 5

Rich source of Factor VIII and fibrinogen.

Allows large concentration of factor VIII to be administered in small volume.

Question 6

SAG-Mannitol Blood - what does it contain, how much can be given

Answer 6

Removal of all plasma from a blood unit and substitution with sodium chloride, adenine, anhydrous glucose and mannitol.
Up to 4 units of SAG M Blood may be administered. Thereafter whole blood is preferred. After 8 units, clotting factors and platelets should be considered.