If you are going into surgery that is likely to involve blood loss, you may anticipate this.
Or, you may require one unexpectedly due to an accident or an illness.
In the United States, blood transfusions save millions of lives each year.
ozgurdonmaz / Getty Images
ozgurdonmaz / Getty Images
Why Blood Transfusions Happen
A blood transfusion treats specific problems.
Your healthcare provider can transfuse the components you need.
Blood Transfusion Procedure
Blood transfusions may intimidate you if you’ve never undergone one.
The transfusion will usually take place at your healthcare provider’s office, a clinic, or a hospital.
Here’s what to expect.
The laboratory’s blood bank professionals will ensure they label each unit with your identification.
If there is a reason why you aren’t, they will promptly explain why.
This is called anautologous transfusion.
You will either sit for this or lie down.
They will ensure your identification matches the identification on the transfused blood products.
The blood for the transfusion will drip from a bag through the IV line into your vein.
Completing this process can take up to four hours.
Remember that even if all your levels meet expectations, you may experience some side effects.
Can You Refuse a Blood Transfusion?
An adult can opt against having a blood transfusion even if it means they may ultimately die.
Post-Transfusion Reactions
In most instances, any reaction to a blood transfusion will occur right away.
But sometimes, such adverse reactions may happen down the line.
Here, the person develops antibodies to the transfused red cells.
These antibodies may be too weak for initial detection to pick up.
Usually, this can occur in those who are pregnant or who previously underwent a transfusion.
Transfusion-associatedgraft-versus-host diseaseis a very rare complication that can occur months after transfusion.
Blood Transfusions Can Save Lives
Transfusions save lives round the clock.
In the United States, a person needs blood or platelets every 2 seconds.
Having one after an accident, illness, or surgical procedure can stash your life.
Afterward, you may have little more than a sore arm.
Contact a healthcare provider immediately with any concerning symptoms.
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