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Germany: Transfusion

In Germany, blood is collected mainly by the German Red Cross (DRK) blood services, and also by university-hospital and municipal blood services.

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

01Short answer

Red cell and platelet transfusions are often needed during leukaemia treatment. Blood is collected from donors, tested and supplied to hospitals. Before a transfusion your identity and blood group are checked at the bedside; if you feel unwell, say so at once.

02Simple explanation

DRK: main blood service.

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 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 — Germany: Transfusion

Network

Several blood services cover the whole country.

On a dark navy background, a blood-bank network.
Figure 3.Network — Germany: 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 under a nurse’s watch.
PlateletsA transfusion may be given when platelets are low.
NetworkSeveral blood services cover the whole country.

07Key terms

Bluttransfusion
Blood transfusion.
Erythrozytenkonzentrat
Red cell concentrate.
Thrombozytenkonzentrat
Platelet concentrate.
Bedside-Test
Bedside check.

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 for 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. DRK-Blutspendedienste. Blood donation (in German)
  2. NHS. Blood transfusion
  3. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Blood Transfusion and Donation
  4. World Health Organization (WHO). Blood safety and availability — fact sheet
  5. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Expanded access
  6. HealthCare.gov. Appealing a health plan decision
  7. America's Blood Centers. Official website
  8. AABB (Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies). Official website
  9. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Blood and blood products
  10. NMDP. Official website
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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