The clinical use of blood : handbook
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Date
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Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
World Health Organization
Abstract
Description
219 p.
Originally issued as WHO document WHO/BTS/99.3
This WHO learning module provides comprehensive guidance on the appropriate clinical use of blood and blood products as part of the Organization’s strategy to improve blood safety and reduce unnecessary transfusion. Intended for clinicians, blood transfusion specialists and other health professionals, it supports education, training and clinical decision-making by promoting evidence-based transfusion practice without compromising standards of quality and safety. The publication explains the principles of clinical transfusion, blood physiology, anaemia, replacement fluids, blood components and plasma derivatives, transfusion procedures, and the prevention, recognition and management of transfusion-related risks and adverse effects. The module emphasizes that transfusion should only be used when clearly indicated and when the expected benefits outweigh the risks. It highlights the importance of voluntary non-remunerated blood donation, donor selection, screening for transfusion-transmissible infections, compatibility testing, quality systems and adherence to national guidelines. Practical recommendations are provided on minimizing unnecessary transfusions through appropriate patient assessment, prevention and treatment of anaemia, effective fluid replacement, good anaesthetic and surgical management, and continuous monitoring of transfusion practice to improve patient outcomes and strengthen the safe clinical use of blood.
Originally issued as WHO document WHO/BTS/99.3
This WHO learning module provides comprehensive guidance on the appropriate clinical use of blood and blood products as part of the Organization’s strategy to improve blood safety and reduce unnecessary transfusion. Intended for clinicians, blood transfusion specialists and other health professionals, it supports education, training and clinical decision-making by promoting evidence-based transfusion practice without compromising standards of quality and safety. The publication explains the principles of clinical transfusion, blood physiology, anaemia, replacement fluids, blood components and plasma derivatives, transfusion procedures, and the prevention, recognition and management of transfusion-related risks and adverse effects. The module emphasizes that transfusion should only be used when clearly indicated and when the expected benefits outweigh the risks. It highlights the importance of voluntary non-remunerated blood donation, donor selection, screening for transfusion-transmissible infections, compatibility testing, quality systems and adherence to national guidelines. Practical recommendations are provided on minimizing unnecessary transfusions through appropriate patient assessment, prevention and treatment of anaemia, effective fluid replacement, good anaesthetic and surgical management, and continuous monitoring of transfusion practice to improve patient outcomes and strengthen the safe clinical use of blood.
Keywords
Blood Transfusion, Plasma, Anemia, Pregnancy Complications, Intraoperative Complications, Wounds and Injuries, Burns, Blood Safety, Blood Banks, HIV Infections, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Malaria, Fluid Therapy, Quality Assurance, Health Care, Guideline, Handbook, Medical Technology and Radiation Medicine, therapeutic use, methods, therapy, standards