Blood Transfusion (cont.)
Donor Blood (Using someone else's blood)
All donor blood is tested for safety making its risks very
small, but no screening program is perfect and risks, such as contraction of
the hepatitis virus or other
infectious disease still exist.
Volunteer blood - blood collected from the community blood
supply (blood banks). This has the advantage of being readily
available, and can be life-saving when your own blood is not available. The
disadvantage is that there is a risk of disease transmission,
such as hepatitis or AIDS, and allergic reactions.
Designated donor blood - blood is collected from the donors you
select. You can select people with your own blood type who you
feel are safe donors. Like volunteer blood, there is still a risk of
disease transmission, such as hepatitis and AIDS, and allergic
reactions. This process usually requires several days for advanced donation. It
may not necessarily be safer than volunteer donor blood.
Blood Transfusion At A Glance
- Transfusion of your own blood (autologous) is the safest
method but requires planning ahead and not all patients are eligible.
- Directed donor blood allows the patient to receive blood
from known donors.
- Volunteer donor blood is usually readily available and when
properly tested has a low incidence of adverse events.
- Blood conserving techniques are an important aspect of
limiting transfusion requirements.
SOURCE: California Department of Health Services
Last Editorial Review: 10/9/2007
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