Blood Transfusion Information

A blood transfusion is a very common procedure. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, roughly 5 million people in the United States will need to have a blood transfusion every year. Because scientists have not yet discovered a way to manufacture blood, all blood used for transfusions must be donated.

Facts

• Blood banks store donated blood needed for transfusions. When a person donates blood, it is first tested and screened for viruses to ensure it's safe for transfusions. It is also typed. There are four different blood types, including A, B, AB and O. In addition, all types of blood are classified as either Rh negative or Rh positive, which means they have or don't have a specific antigen in the blood. A patient must receive blood that is compatible with her own blood type.

Indications

• There are several reason why a blood transfusion may be needed. If a person is undergoing surgery and excess blood loss occurs, a transfusion may be required. Patients who have surgery scheduled far in advance can donate their own blood to be transfused at the time of surgery. Other indications for a transfusions include anemia, severe injury, which causes a loss of blood, and bone marrow disease or bone marrow failure.

Procedure

• Patients receiving a blood transfusion will have to have their own blood tested to determine what type they are. The blood the patient will be getting will be double checked to avoid errors. An intravenous line is inserted into the patient's vein and the blood is transfused into the line. The amount of blood transfused will depend on the patient's condition. According to Penn State University Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, the blood is measured and given in units, which is the equivalent to one pint. Patients are monitored during a transfusion for any allergic reactions or side effects.

Risks

• According to Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, most transfusions don't cause any adverse effects. A mild allergic reaction is possible and symptoms may include, itching, a rash and a headache. Rarely more serious problems will develop, such as a large drop in blood pressure. If incompatible donor blood is given to a patient in error, a homolytic reaction can occur. This happens when the red blood cells are destroyed by the donor blood. This type of complication is rare since blood should be double checked to prevent errors.

Considerations

• Blood contains plasma, platelets and red and white blood cells. A whole blood transfusion occurs when a recipient needs all the components of the blood. According to Mayo Clinic, often only some of the components of the blood are given such as red blood cells or platelets. The medical condition the recipient has will determine which components of the blood are given.