Before the transfusion can begin, a few things need to be checked.

First, the staff need to make sure you are who they think you are. They’ll ask you to identify yourself and confirm that the details are right on your identification band. If they’re not correct, let your nurse or doctor know immediately. Properly identifying you is how they make sure the right blood product goes to the right patient.

Two clinical staff will also check the product itself at your side One of them will start the transfusion. Your health care team will do everything they can to make sure you’re comfortable and understand what's going to happen next.

The transfusion is given through a drip, also known as an IV. It's a soft plastic tube inserted into your vein, usually in your arm. You may feel a prick or stinging sensation when the IV is inserted. The transfusion itself may feel cold, but shouldn’t hurt. Most people don’t feel a thing.

How long it takes depends on your condition. In emergencies, it can be given as fast as your body will allow. Otherwise, one bag of red cells usually takes about two hours. It can take a bit longer, but never more than four hours. 

You’ll be carefully monitored, so if you feel uneasy, unwell or notice anything that you didn't have before your transfusion began, let one of the nurses or doctors know immediately.

You need to be aware of transfusion reactions. They can occur during your transfusion or they may be delayed and happen later. Most reactions aren't severe, and can be corrected with minor medical intervention. Look out for symptoms including rash, itching, hives, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, high temperature, pain at the needle site, dark or decreased amount of urine, chills, or shaking.