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Netherlands: Transfusion

In the Netherlands, all blood and blood components are collected and prepared by a single national blood bank, Sanquin.

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

01Short answer

Red cell and platelet transfusions are often needed during leukaemia treatment. Sanquin collects blood from voluntary, unpaid donors, tests it and supplies hospitals. Before a transfusion, the patient’s identity and blood group are checked carefully; if you feel unwell during it, say so at once.

02Simple explanation

Sanquin: national blood bank.

Red cells: for anaemia.

Platelets: against bleeding risk.

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 — Netherlands: Transfusion

Network

Sanquin serves the whole country.

On a dark navy background, a blood-bank network.
Figure 3.Network — Netherlands: 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.
NetworkSanquin serves the whole country.

07Key terms

Bloedtransfusie
Blood transfusion.
Rode bloedcellen
Red cells.
Bloedplaatjes
Platelets.
Sanquin
Blood bank.

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 donate for me?

Directed donation is usually not practised; ask Sanquin.

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 donate for me?

  3. How long does it take?

My questions

12Sources

  1. Sanquin. Official website
  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. Rijksoverheid. Geneesmiddelen (in Dutch)
  6. NFK (Dutch Federation of Cancer Patient Organisations). Official website (in Dutch)
  7. Voedingscentrum (Netherlands Nutrition Centre). Official website (in Dutch)
  8. Vewin (Association of Dutch drinking water companies). Official website
  9. Business.gov.nl (Netherlands Enterprise Agency). Sick pay: continued payment of wages
  10. KWF Kankerbestrijding. Official website (in Dutch)
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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