Blood collection and delivery

Appropriate checking procedures when collecting blood components reduces the risk of transfusion of the wrong component to the wrong patient.

Collection or delivery may occur from the following:

Transfusion Service Provider
validated blood shipper
pneumatic tube
remote blood fridge

Collection should only occur when the patient and clinical area are prepared to commence the transfusion.

Always remember to:

Collect one pack at a time (except in an emergency) to avoid wastage and reduce the risk of wrong transfusion.
Take documented patient details and product type to collect pack.
Ensure all patient details, including first name, family name, DOB, and medical record number, match the details on the pack.
Ensure that you have collected the prescribed component.
Ensure the pack is within expiry date and time and check for any visible leaks at ports and seams, and that there is no evidence of haemolysis, unusual discolouration, cloudiness or visible clots.
Ensure the attached compatibility label has the same donation number as the component label.
Ensure all documentation for the removal/collection of the blood component has been completed.
If any discrepancies arise, do not proceed and contact the Transfusion Service Provider.

Health service providers need to have policies and training on safe collection processes and the policy should identify local roles and responsibilities.