Massive Transfusion Protocol
During your stay at Burnside War Memorial Hospital you received a number of blood components because you lost a large volume of blood. This is often referred to as a ‘Massive Transfusion’.
This is different to receiving a routine blood transfusion due to the urgency of the situation and the amount of blood you received. More information about blood transfusions can be found at: https://mytransfusion.com.au
Patient Name:
Admission Diagnosis:
Date of Massive Transfusion:
Here is a summary of the blood components you received and a brief explanation of what they do in your body.
Red Cells: ……… UnitsRed Cells give blood its colour and make up 40% of your total blood volume. They carry oxygen to all parts of your body and remove waste products from your tissues e.g. muscles and organs. |
Platelets: ………… BagsPlatelets are yellow in colour. When the body is bleeding, platelets form a ‘plug’ at the bleeding point to help you stop bleeding. This might be in the blood vessel itself or in a wound if you were injured. |
Plasma: ………….. Units(Fresh Frozen Plasma and Cryoprecipitate) Plasma is the pale yellow liquid part of blood. It makes up 55% of blood volume and 92% of plasma is water. It contains vital clotting proteins that helps the body stop bleeding. |
Other blood products: |
Why did I have to have a massive transfusion?
Please ask your specialist to tell you more about what led you to receive a massive transfusion.
Are there any ongoing side effects I should know about?
There is a chance that your body may have made some new antibodies.
Antibodies are important part of our immune system that help to protect against foreign things such as bacteria and viruses. New antibodies can be formed in response to receiving donated blood.
If you ever need another blood transfusion, a blood sample will be taken from you to make sure the blood you receive is compatible with these antibodies so you do not have a reaction.
What does this mean for you future health care?
If asked by a health professional or someone taking your blood, you must answer yes when asked if you have had a blood transfusion before and if possible tell them the date. This also includes any time you are considering being a blood donor.
What if I have developed new antibodies?
Having antibodies does not affect your general health. They become important if you were to become pregnant or need a blood transfusion.
Let your doctor/ anaesthetist know before any future surgery, this will help to organise suitable blood for you if needed.
DISCLAIMER This fact sheet provides general information only. For specific advice about your baby or your healthcare needs, you should seek advice from your health professional. Burnside Hospital does not accept any responsibility for loss or damage arising from your reliance on this fact sheet instead of seeing a health professional. If you require urgent medical attention, please contact your nearest emergency department.
