What is a blood transfusion?
Blood transfusions consist of transferring a certain amount of blood from one person to another person intravenously (donor and recipient). They can be:
- Homologous: when the donor and recipient are two different people. It is mandatory to determine the compatibility between them by defining the blood group;
- Autologous: when the donor and recipient are the same person. It is mandatory to prepare the blood bags before needing them.
After the transfusion, the heartbeat, blood pressure and temperature are monitored.
What is involved?
During the transfusion, the donor’s blood, previously prepared in a bag, is transferred into the recipient’s vein. Each transfusion lasts from 1 to 4 hours, depending on the amount of blood to be transfused.
Why is it done?
Transfusions are used to replace blood lost during surgery, after major post-traumatic hemorrhage or due to certain diseases. Blood transfusions are also used to correct coagulation disorders and to maintain adequate levels of blood volume and respiratory gas exchange.
The most common cases are:
- Accident with severe blood loss.
- Severe surgical procedures with possible hemorrhage
- Poisoning
- Burns
- Organ transplants
- Certain chronic pathologies (thalassemia)
- Coagulation disorders
- Immune system deficiency
- Severe anemia
- Blood diseases.
Preparation for blood transfusion
Prior to transfusion, a blood sample must be taken for pre-transfusion testing. Following the request for blood components, acceptance and presentation of the tests, the transfusion is carried out at the health center or at home.
Recovery after blood transfusion
After the transfusion, your heartbeat, blood pressure and temperature are monitored. A bruise may remain for a few days at the point where the needle was inserted. After a blood transfusion, complete rest is recommended for the first week. For more information consult a Hematology specialist.