Transfusion essay October 2009


Discuss the measures that can be used to reduce the risk of transmitting viruses to patients via red cells, platelets and fresh frozen plasma

 

1. Donor Selection

Motivation – altruistic ie. no financial gain

Rules dictating who can donate blood are complex and are constantly being updated by the NBS - (please correct these if you think they are out of date)

Permanent exclusions

Temporary exclusions 

 

2. Venepuncture

 

3. Storage / processing

 

4. Microbiology

Mandatory tests

Discretionary tests

 

5. Transfusion