What it means
Donated blood is separated into parts so each client gets only what they need. Packed red blood cells raise oxygen-carrying capacity; platelets help clotting when the count is low; fresh frozen plasma replaces clotting factors; cryoprecipitate is rich in fibrinogen. Albumin and some clotting factor concentrates are also made from donated plasma. Each product has its own storage rules and infusion time.
For the nurse
Before a blood transfusionBLUD trans-FYOO-zhunGiving blood, or a part of blood, from a donor into a person's vein.trans- acrossfus/o pourFull entry , check the order, consent, the client's identity and the product label with a second qualified person at the bedside. Take baseline vital signs, stay with the client for the first 15 minutes and stop the transfusion at once for any sign of a reaction. Use only normal salineSAY-leenA solution of salt (sodium chloride) in water, used for IV fluids, flushes, wound cleaning and other care.Full entry in the same line.
At a glance
| Spanish | hemoderivado |
|---|---|
| Also written | blood products, blood components, blood component |
Related terms
platelet
A tiny cell fragment in the blood that sticks together at a wound to help form a clot.
blood transfusion
Giving blood, or a part of blood, from a donor into a person's vein.
red blood cell
A blood cell that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues; also called an erythrocyte.
saline
A solution of salt (sodium chloride) in water, used for IV fluids, flushes, wound cleaning and other care.
blood type
The group a person's blood belongs to, based on markers on the red blood cells: A, B, AB or O, and Rh positive or negative.