Blood Components
The following blood components and products are available:
- Red Cells
- Platelets
- Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP)
- Cryoprecipitate
- Octaplas (TTP patients only)
- Granulocytes
- Albumin (4.5%, 5% and 20%)
- Anti-D
- Coagulation Factor Concentrates (e.g. Factor VIIa, Prothrombin Complex Concentrate PCC)
The storage, availability and administration of blood components differ between products. Advice on the availability of products and pre-transfusion testing can be given by laboratory staff. All requests for advice on the appropriateness of transfusion and indications for blood and blood products therapy should be directed to the Haematology clinician.
The laboratory staff will question any requests they feel may be inappropriate and will request authority to issue blood products from a member of the Haematology medical staff if they feel this is required.
Emergency Transfusion
Personal contact between the doctor concerned and the BT Laboratory is essential in cases of emergency. Please see contact details at the beginning of this document.
Group O red cells can be issued in an emergency but should be avoided if time allows for a full crossmatch.
Collection of Blood and Blood Products
| Situation | Who can Collect | Patient details required |
|---|---|---|
| Routine collection | Only staff who have been:
|
Yes |
| Emergency Group O blood | Only staff who have been:
Have a valid blood collection barcode |
No |
| Major Haemorrhage Packs | Any staff member who knows the location of the Blood Transfusion Laboratory
|
Yes |
