What blood products can be transfused?
There are many different products made from human blood that can be transfused: • Red Blood Cells: The function of the red cells is to carry the oxygen to the vital organs to allow for survival. At present, there is no proven substitute for red blood cells. A red cell transfusion may be necessary to prevent damage to vital organs due to lack of oxygen. • Platelets: Platelets are small cells needed to prevent or stop bleeding. These sticky little cells are needed to start blood clotting at the site of injury. Platelet transfusions may be required for patients who have a low number of platelets or whose platelets do not work properly. • Plasma: Plasma contains many substances including the proteins that help blood to clot. • Albumin: Albumin is a protein from plasma than can be used to replace fluid that has been lost. • Immunoglobulin Preparations: Immunoglobulins are proteins that help fight infection. They may be given to patients with low immunoglobulin levels, or patients experienci
