DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2017.v05i01.050

Pages: 259-262

Blood and its components have been as important as drugs in the medical armamentarium. Whole blood on processing furnishes packed RBCs, platelets, plasma, cryoprecipitate, immunoglobulins, albumin, and specific coagulant Factors. Given that each transfusion is an invasive and immunogenic procedure, focus is now centered on possible ways of reductions in transfusions. Studies have propagated the concept of restrictive transfusion strategies for packed RBCs. The indications and triggers for plasma and platelet transfusion also have been strictly defined. The physiology and unique long-term consequences associated with transfusion related complications in children makes it important to establish different guidelines for the Pediatric ICU. The decision to transfuse however remains a clinical judgement individualized to each patient based on the known facts.