Name of the Procedure:

Autologous Blood or Component Collection, Processing, and Storage; Predeposited

Summary

This procedure involves collecting a patient's own blood or blood components in advance of a scheduled medical procedure where blood transfusion might be needed. The collected blood is processed and stored so that it can be used for the patient if required during or after a surgery or medical treatment.

Purpose

This procedure is performed to ensure that there is a safe and adequate supply of blood for a patient who may need a transfusion during or after surgery. By using the patient's own blood, the risk of transfusion reactions and transmission of infections is minimized.

Indications

• Patients scheduled for elective surgeries with a high risk of blood loss, such as orthopedic or cardiac surgeries.
• Individuals who want to avoid the risks associated with donor blood transfusions.
• Patients who have rare blood types or antibodies that make finding compatible donor blood difficult.

Preparation

• The patient might be required to undergo a series of blood tests to ensure they are healthy enough to donate their blood.
• Fasting may not be required, but the patient might be advised to stay hydrated.
• Any medications being taken should be discussed with the healthcare provider to determine if any adjustments are needed.

Procedure Description

1. Blood Collection: Blood is drawn from the patient, usually from a vein in the arm using a sterile needle.
2. Processing: The collected blood may be separated into components (red cells, plasma, platelets) if needed.
3. Storage: The blood or its components are then safely stored in a blood bank until they are needed.
   • Tools and equipment used include sterile needles, blood collection bags, centrifuges for blood component separation, and storage refrigerators.
   • The procedure typically does not require anesthesia, but a local anesthetic might be used to minimize discomfort at the needle insertion site.

Duration

The blood collection process usually takes about 10-20 minutes per donation session. Depending on the surgery and the amount of blood needed, multiple sessions may be required.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital, blood bank, or a specialized outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Phlebotomists or nurses specialized in blood collection.
• Blood bank technicians for processing and storage.
• Hematologists or other specialist physicians for oversight.

Risks and Complications

• Mild discomfort or bruising at the needle insertion site.
• Lightheadedness or dizziness due to blood loss.
• Rarely, infection at the collection site.
• Very rarely, adverse reactions during collection such as fainting.

Benefits

• Reduced risk of transfusion reactions and infections since the blood is the patient’s own.
• Assurance of having an available supply of compatible blood.
• Provides peace of mind for patients with rare blood types or specific antibodies.

Recovery

• Patients are usually advised to rest briefly after the blood collection and drink fluids.
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for the remainder of the day.
• Recovery is generally quick, with normal activities resumed within a few hours.

Alternatives

• Using donor blood from a blood bank.
• Blood conservation techniques during surgery such as blood salvage.
• Hemodilution, where blood is diluted during surgery to minimize loss of red blood cells.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, the patient may feel a needle prick and slight discomfort at the site.
• After the procedure, the patient may feel a bit tired or lightheaded, which is usually alleviated by rest and hydration.
• Pain management is usually not required, but over-the-counter pain relievers can be taken if needed.