Guidelines / Advice

Ordering and Administration of Blood

Preparation of the patient l Correct identification and verification of the patient and the blood unit l Correct aseptic technique l Monitoring of the patient during the transfusion l Special precautions


Aseptic Technique

Blood is usually transfused through a large needle or cannula, the size of which is selected according to the calibre of the patient’s veins. Almost any peripheral vein is suitable for transfusion; however, those in the forearm are best, as the patient’s movement will not be restricted. Meticulous skin care and aseptic technique cannot be over emphasized in transfusion therapy as blood acts as an ideal culture medium for bacterial growth. The proposed site for venepuncture should be cleaned with the recommended hospital antiseptic working from clean to dirty areas. Ideally, gloves and a sterile field should be used to position cannulae for transfusion, but most especially in the immunocompromised and long-term transfusion patients. The site should never be re-palpated after cleansing.

During transfusion the transfusion site should be visible through a transparent dressing so that any inflammation or infiltration may be seen immediately. The transfusion should be repositioned if the inflammation is observed.