NoBlood

CLINICAL USE OF BLOOD 'UPDATE IN ANESTHESIA' ISSUE 14, 2002 - http://www.mdlinx.com/HemeOncLinx/th...ecid=17&ok=yes

Articles Opening Statement - Blood used correctly can be life saving, used inappropriately it can endanger life. It is important to remember that blood transfusion is only one part of the patient’s management. The decision to transfuse blood or blood products should always be based on a careful assessment of clinical and laboratory indications that transfusion is necessary to save life or prevent significant morbidity.

While the responsibility of providing and ensuring access to safe blood lies with the Blood Transfusion Services, the final responsibility for the blood transfusion lies with the clinicians (Anaesthetists, Surgeons, Obstetricians, and Physicians) who must make the correct decision depending on the clinical condition of the patient. In the operating room it is most often the anaesthetist, rather than the surgeon who makes the decision for blood transfusion. As anaesthetists are involved with a wide range of specialities including Trauma, Intensive Care, and often teach students at the undergraduate and postgraduate level, they may actively facilitate the appropriate clinical use of blood

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Mr. Jan B. Wade
Blood Management Consultant
Enhance Outcomes - Control Cost
For Information Call - 360 296-1807
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