Blood Transfusion

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KEY POINTS

• A blood transfusion is the transfer of blood or any of its parts from one person to another.
• Blood is given to you through a needle in your vein. The amount of blood you need depends on many things including how much you have lost or, if you have a blood disorder, how severe the disorder is.
• Blood donated in the US is safe. If you have a planned surgery coming up where you may need a transfusion, you may choose to donate your own blood before the procedure.

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What is a blood transfusion?

A blood transfusion is the transfer of blood or any of its parts from one person to another. Examples of parts of the blood that may be given are:

• Red blood cells, which carry oxygen and nutrition to your body
• Platelets, which help your blood clot
• Plasma, which is the liquid that holds blood cells
• Clotting factors, which are needed for blood to clot normally

Which part of the blood is given depends on the problem being treated.

When are blood transfusions needed?

You may need a blood transfusion if:

• You have lost a lot of blood because of an injury or surgery
• Your body is not able to make enough blood cells due to illness, disease, or organ damage
• You have a cancer

Blood circulates through the body, bringing oxygen and nutrients to every cell. The most common reason for a transfusion is to help your body get enough oxygen by making sure you have enough red blood cells.

How is the blood given in a transfusion?

Blood is given to you through a needle in your vein (IV). The amount of blood you need depends on many things including how much you have lost or, if you have a blood disorder, how severe the disorder is. Your pulse, blood pressure, and temperature are watched while you receive blood. If you have a reaction while having a transfusion, the procedure is stopped. A reaction to a blood transfusion may include fever, chills, wheezing, anxiety, rash, a burning feeling along the vein where the transfusion is given, flushing, and headache. It is rare to have a severe reaction.

Is the donated blood safe?

Blood donated in the US is safe. Blood donors are carefully screened before they donate, and then the blood is carefully tested before it is used for transfusions. The screening and testing make it very unlikely that you will receive infected blood.

If you have a planned surgery coming up where you may need a transfusion, you may choose to donate your own blood before the procedure. Ask your healthcare provider about this.