Anaesthetists Handbook - MEDICAL EDUCATION at University ...

Blood and blood productsEmergency O-negative bloodSeveral units are maintained in the blood fridges (see page 186). Youmust inform blood bank when these units are removed from thefridge.Electronic issue of blood (EIB)This is a recent development. To be suitable for electronic issue ofblood, a patient has to fulfil all the following criteria:1. Two plasma samples processed by blood bank, at least onewithin the previous month. The BAN can be used as a referencesample but the valid sample must be a valid G+S tested here atUHCW within the last month. There is no restriction on the timebetween the two samples.2. Both samples to agree with each other on blood group.3. Antibody screen negative.In practice, if a recent GA (group and save) sample and a BAN orsecond GA sample are on CRRS without an antibody flag then thepatient is suitable for EIB. However, this is dependent on their recenthistory of any blood transfusion.Blood requested for electronic issue will usually be released withinten minutes. If you are unsure whether a patient is suitable for EIB ornot contact the Blood Bank on 25322 for advice and guidance on howto proceed.Group specific bloodThis is supported by a single plasma sample. ABO Rhesuscompatible blood is issued on a red label (no black matching label;see page 187) as it has not been cross matched and so there is ahigher risk of incompatibility. Blood requested as urgent groupspecific will usually be released within five minutes. The requestingdoctor is responsible for the decision to use group specific blood, andthe justification must be written in the medical records.180 Anaesthetists Handbook January 2010