A FAIL-SAFE APPROACH TO INCOMPATIBLE BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS
Abstract
The objective of the research was to develop a standard 'fail-safe' system for managing incompatible blood transfusions. Minimum tests are specified for detection of incompatible blood transfusions. A salvage procedure is outlined and role-specific instructions are provided. A cross-check for Incompatible Blood Transfusion (IBT) consists of the determination of only two parameters which will be diagnostically altered if IBT is present: positive Coombs test and an elevated plasma hemoglobin, compared to pretransfusion specimens. With a positive diagnosis of IBT, mannitol, stocked at all stations as an emergency drug, can be used instantly to salvage the patient. Thereupon, a coexistent consumption coagulopathy is investigated and managed according to a panel of coagulation parameters. The principles of cross-checking at the operational level of the ward and the laboratory are embodied in segregated, delegated instructions, one for each member of the investigative team. 9 Thus, role-specific sets of instructions produce a synchronous, automatic effort, accommodating all types of blood transfusion reactions. A hospital-wide detection and salvage system for victims of IBT is thus made immediately available to the pathologist who will adopt these forms and instructions in toto.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 09, 1970
- Accession Number
- AD0705560
Entities
People
- Dale L. Kessler
- Frank R. Camp Jr.
- Nicholas F. Conte
- Robert M. Nalbandian
Organizations
- United States Army Medical Research Laboratory