Name of the Procedure:

Platelets, Pheresis, Each Unit (P9034)

Summary

Platelet pheresis is a medical procedure where platelets are collected from a donor's blood. Platelets play a critical role in blood clotting, and this process ensures that patients in need, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, can receive these vital blood components.

Purpose

Medical Conditions/Problems Addressed:

• Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)
• Bleeding disorders
• Patients undergoing chemotherapy or bone marrow transplants

Goals/Expected Outcomes:

• Increase platelet count in recipients
• Reduce bleeding risks
• Support recovery in patients undergoing treatments that affect blood cell production

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions:

• Excessive or unexplained bleeding or bruising
• Blood disorders like leukemia or anemia

Patient Criteria:

• Patients with low platelet counts needing transfusions
• Donors who meet specific health and eligibility criteria for blood donation

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• Donors may need to avoid certain medications such as aspirin for 48 hours prior.
• Stay hydrated and eat a healthy meal before the donation.
• Undergo a basic health screening including blood tests to ensure eligibility.

Procedure Description

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Blood is drawn from the donor's arm.
2. The blood passes through a machine that separates platelets from other blood components.
3. Platelets are collected and stored in a sterile bag.
4. Remaining blood components are returned to the donor's body.

Tools, Equipment, or Technology Used:

• Apheresis machine
• Sterile needles and tubing

Anesthesia or Sedation Details:

• Local anesthesia may be applied to the needle insertion site to minimize discomfort.

Duration

• The procedure typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Setting

• Platelet pheresis is usually performed in a blood donation center or hospital setting.

Personnel

• Trained phlebotomists or nurses
• Supervising physicians or hematologists

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Bruising or discomfort at the needle site
• Dizziness or lightheadedness

Rare Risks:

• Allergic reactions to anticoagulants used during the procedure
• Infection at the needle site

Complications Management:

• Close monitoring by healthcare professionals
• Immediate care for any adverse reactions

Benefits

• Increased platelet availability for patients in need
• Immediate improvement in platelet count for recipients
• Lifesaving contributions from donors

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care for Donors:

• Rest and hydrate well after donation.
• Avoid strenuous activities for 24 hours.

Expected Recovery Time:

• Donors can usually resume normal activities within a few hours.
• Recipients may notice an improvement in their symptoms within a few days.

Follow-Up:

• Recipients may require additional transfusions depending on their medical condition.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Platelet transfusion from whole blood donations
• Medication to stimulate platelet production

Pros and Cons:

• Whole blood donations provide fewer platelets compared to apheresis.
• Medications may take longer to increase platelet levels.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Donors may feel a slight pinch from the needle and experience some discomfort.
• It is generally a painless process, with staff ensuring comfort.

After the Procedure:

• Mild fatigue for donors, easily managed with rest.
• Recipients may experience improved symptoms such as reduced bleeding and bruising.

Pain Management and Comfort Measures:

• Cold compresses for needle site discomfort
• Comfortable seating and friendly support in the donation center

This markdown document should provide a comprehensive overview of the platelet pheresis procedure, addressing various aspects that patients and donors might want to know.