Blood Transfusions

Blood transfusion involves the intravenous administration of blood products to restore oxygen-carrying capacity, clotting function, or volume. Packed Red Blood Cells (PRBCs) are the most commonly transfused product and increase hemoglobin and hematocrit to improve tissue oxygenation. Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) contains all clotting factors and is used to correct coagulopathies such as those seen in liver disease or massive hemorrhage. Platelet concentrates are given when platelet counts are critically low or when platelet dysfunction causes active bleeding. Cryoprecipitate is a concentrated source of fibrinogen, Factor VIII, Factor XIII, and von Willebrand factor. It is used in disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), massive transfusion protocols, and hemophilia A. Each blood product has specific storage requirements, infusion rates, and compatibility considerations that nurses must follow to ensure patient safety. Pre-transfusion verification is a critical safety step. Two registered nurses (or one RN and one licensed provider, depending on jurisdiction) must independently verify the patient identity, blood product label, ABO/Rh compatibility, expiration date, and the prescriber order at the bedside before administration. Baseline vital signs must be obtained within 30 minutes before starting...