Educational modules on clinical use of blood

Overview

Blood transfusion is an essential part of patient care. When used correctly, it saves lives and improves health. However, blood transfusion carries a potential risk of acute or delayed complications and transfusion- transmitted infections and should only be prescribed when there are clear indications for doing so. Many countries in the world face challenges in making sufficient supplies of blood products available, while also ensuring the quality and safety of these products. National data on the use of blood products are limited, but studies suggest that blood products are often inappropriately used in both developed and developing countries. Unnecessary transfusions and suboptimal clinical practices compromise patient safety, are wasteful and limit the availability of blood products for patients who are really in need.