For pediatric and neonatal transfusions, it is important to supply the small volume needed. Newborns, compared to adult, require transfusion more frequently, which increases donor exposure and donor-related risks such as hepatitis. The unique
small-volume requirements of transfusion to neonates may give rise to a large amount of wastage. Thus, a single donor unit for adult transfusion is not adequate for the pediatric and neonatal transfusion.
Currently, several technical approaches for pediatric units are available to supply the small volume needed and decrease blood wastage associated with requests for small volume transfusion and reduce donor exposure for those infants who are
maintained
with transfusion from the same unit for several days.
Authors experienced the use of quadruple bags for pediatric units of red blood cells in our laboratory. The use of quadruple bage for pediatric transfusion was simple for preparation and easy to adjust the volume. The outcome of the transfused
patients
was successful.
In Korea, transfusion services providing blood for pediatrics and neonates need to develop the methods of preparing 50-100ml pediatric units of whole blood or red blood cells to realize above advantages and to minimize wastage.
|