Competency: 8

Details

Select, handle and issue blood components with additional specifications including:

• irradiated
• HbS negative
• phenotyped red cells
• washed components.

Considerations

• Principles of expected values for haematology and tests used to determine the need for blood components.
• Appropriate use of blood and transfusion triggers.
• Use of maximum blood ordering schedules.
• Use of IT to record and check for patient special requirements.
• Clinical risks where special requirements are not met and value of clinical/transfusion history.
• Minimum requirements for pre-transfusion testing in emergency situations.
• Appropriate use and risks associated with ‘flying squad’ group O RhD negative units.
• Testing and labelling criteria to be met before issuing group-specific blood in an emergency.
• Value of ‘trauma packs’ and rationale behind ratios of red cells: fresh frozen plasma (FFP): platelets used in major haemorrhage.
• Thawing of frozen components such as FFP and cryoprecipitate for issue, and understanding of changed storage conditions/expiry once thawed.
• Reasons why blood components may be visually not fit for use, e.g. haemolysed, lipaemic or bacterially contaminated units.
• Appropriate actions if a component is rejected for issue.

Relevant learning outcomes