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United Kingdom: Transfusion

In the United Kingdom, blood from voluntary, unpaid donors is collected by four national blood services; in England this is NHS Blood and Transplant.

Last updated: ~1 min read
On a dark navy background, a bag on a stand.
Figure 1.Blood bag — United Kingdom: Transfusion

01Short answer

Red cell and platelet transfusions are often needed during leukaemia treatment. The blood services (NHSBT in England and separate services in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) test the blood and supply hospitals. Before a transfusion your identity and blood group are checked; if you feel unwell, say so at once.

02Simple explanation

Blood service: national.

Red cells: for anaemia.

Platelets: against bleeding.

03Scientific explanation

Preparation: for some patients components are irradiated or specially matched.

Monitoring: transfusion reactions are recorded and studied.

04What happens in the body?

Transfusion

It is given in a calm room under a nurse’s watch.

Platelets

A transfusion may be given when platelets are low.

On a dark navy background, cells in golden light.
Figure 2.Platelets — United Kingdom: Transfusion

Four services

Each nation has its own blood service.

On a dark navy background, a blood-bank network.
Figure 3.Network — United Kingdom: Transfusion

05During a transfusion

Four steps.

Why? — Ask the reason.1Why?Ask the reason.
Identity — It is checked.2IdentityIt is checked.
Feelings — Speak up.3FeelingsSpeak up.
Counts — Follow them.4CountsFollow them.
SafetyChecks are done.
CalmThe process is clear.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
TransfusionIt is given in a calm room under a nurse’s watch.
PlateletsA transfusion may be given when platelets are low.
Four servicesEach nation has its own blood service.

07Key terms

Transfusion
Transfusion.
Red cells
Red cells.
Platelets
Platelets.
Irradiated blood
Irradiated blood.

08Key points

  • Ask the reason.
  • Check your wristband.
  • Chills, rash, breathlessness: say so at once.
  • Follow your blood counts.
  • Thank donors.

09Frequently asked questions

Is transfusion safe?

Blood is tested strictly; the risk is low but not zero.

Can my family give blood for me?

Usually not, but they can become donors to help other patients.

How long does it take?

It depends on the component; your team will say.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Is transfusion safe?

  2. Can my family give blood for me?

  3. How long does it take?

My questions

12Sources

  1. NHS Blood and Transplant. Give blood
  2. NHS. Blood transfusion
  3. NHS. Blood transfusion
  4. World Health Organization (WHO). Blood safety and availability — fact sheet
  5. Ege University. Official website
  6. Acıbadem Healthcare Group. Official website
  7. HealthTürkiye (Ministry of Health / USHAŞ). Official health tourism portal
  8. Türkiye İlaç ve Tıbbi Cihaz Kurumu (TİTCK). Official website (in Turkish)
  9. Sosyal Güvenlik Kurumu (SGK). Yurt dışından ilaç temini (in Turkish)
  10. Türk Eczacıları Birliği (TEB). Yurt dışından ilaç temini: hasta başvurusu (in Turkish)
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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