A patient’s guide to blood management options
What is blood management? It is the appropriate use of blood, its components and derivatives, and the strategies to reduce or avoid the need for blood transfusion. By doing so, patient outcomes are improved, such as faster recovery time, potential reduction in post-operative infection rates and less exposure to emerging viruses and infections.
Why is blood management necessary?
- Improve patient outcomes
- Less exposure to emerging viruses and infections
- Faster recovery time
- Limited supply of certain blood types
- May reduce post-operative infections
- Preserve blood inventory
- Minimal storage time of blood
The Role of Blood in Your Body
Your red blood cells bring oxygen to your organs and tissues. Oxygen is carried and released by hemoglobin (Hgb), a protein present in red blood cells. A below normal hemoglobin level is called anemia.
Know Your Blood Count
Your doctor can test your blood to determine your hemoglobin level. Your hemoglobin level tells your doctor of your body is making enough red blood cells.
NORMAL HEMOGLOBIN RANGES
Male: 14 – 18 g/dl
Female: 12 – 16 g/dl
Planning for Your Surgery
Questions to Review with Your Physician or Surgeon:
- Will I need a blood transfusion? If so, why?
- What are the risks, if I choose to minimize or avoid blood transfusion?
- What else do I need to do to prepare myself for surgery?
- Will I need to increase my blood count for this surgery?
- What are the risks involved with blood transfusion?
- If I do need a blood transfusion, how will it affect my recovery time?
Check your blood count early! Have a complete blood count (CBC) taken. Once you have the prescription from your physician for lab work/Pre-admission Testing, schedule your appointment immediately.