AORN J 2002 Nov;76(5):830-7, 839, 841 Related Articles, Links


Bloodless medicine and surgery in the OR and beyond.

Cogliano J, Kisner D.

Department of Nursing, College of Health Professions, Towson University, Towson, Md., USA.

Ideas about bloodless surgery are changing. It now is more than transfusion-free surgery for Jehovah's Witnesses. Technological advances and concerns about the safety and availability of blood have led to interest in bloodless surgery among non-Witnesses. Perioperative nurses need to be aware of bloodless surgery technology, which typically incorporates the use of recombinant human erythropoietin and special surgical techniques and equipment. They must have a proper attitude toward blood conservation and respect patient autonomy. Bloodless surgery care extends across specialties and inpatient areas. A knowledge of bloodless surgery will facilitate clear communication between staff members, patients, and patients' family members.

PMID: 12463082 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]