Blood transfusion is a safe procedure in which total blood or only some of its constituents are inserted into the patient’s body, and transfusion may be performed in cases of deep anemia, after an accident or during major surgery, for example.
Although it is possible to perform a total blood transfusion as during further bleeding, it is generally more common to receive transfusions made only of blood components, such as erythrocytes, plasma or platelets for the treatment of anemia or burns, for example.In some cases, it may be necessary to receive multiple blood transfusions to meet the body’s needs.
- In addition.
- In the case of scheduled surgeries.
- It is possible to perform an autotransfusion.
- That is.
- When the blood is drawn before surgery.
- To be used.
- If necessary.
- During surgery.
Blood transfusion can only be performed when the blood type between the donor and the patient is compatible and indicated in cases such as:
In addition, blood transfusions are also widely used in cases of severe bleeding during surgery.Learn all about blood groups to better understand the concept of blood compatibility.
To undergo a blood transfusion, a blood sample is needed to check the blood type and values to decide whether the patient can initiate the transfusion and the amount of blood needed.
The procedure to receive blood can take up to 3 hours, depending on the amount of blood needed and also the component to be transfused.For example, red blood cell transfusion may take longer because it should be done very slowly, and generally the required volume is large, while plasma, although thicker, is usually needed in smaller amounts and may take less.
Having a blood transfusion doesn’t hurt and when the transfusion is done outside of surgery, the patient can usually eat, read, talk, or listen to music while receiving blood, for example.
Find out how the blood donation process works in the video below
In the case of persons with beliefs or religions that prevent transfusion, as is the case with Jehovah’s Witnesses, self-transfusion, especially in the case of scheduled surgeries, in which blood is drawn from the person himself before surgery so that it can then be used during the procedure.
Blood transfusions are very safe, so the risk of getting AIDS or hepatitis is very low, however, in some cases, it can cause allergic reactions, pulmonary edema, heart failure or alterations in blood potassium levels, so all transfusions should be performed in the hospital with the evaluation of the medical equipment.
More information: Risks of blood transfusions.