BLOOD TRANSFUSION

CONTENT

What is a blood transfusion

Why do we transfuse babies

How do you know if a baby needs blood

Can I donate blood for my baby

What happens when a baby gets a transfusion

WHAT IS A BLOOD TRANSFUSION

1.A transfusion is when we add blood or blood cells to the baby’s blood stream.

2.Blood is the fluid in our veins and arteries that carries oxygen and nutrients (food) to our cells. It also contains cells that help the body.

3.Blood is made up of:

  1. White blood cells (WBCs): these cells help fight infection
  2. Red blood cells (RBCs): these cells carry oxygen throughout the body
  3. Platelets—these cells help stop bleeding.
  4. Plasma—this is the fluid part of blood that carries the cells

4.Many babies admitted to the NICU require one or more blood transfusions, especially if they are very small or sick.

5.Every precaution is taken to avoid blood transfusions but sometimes they are necessary for your baby’s health.

6.Also, precautions are taken to make sure the blood is safe to use:

  1. The blood is checked for diseases
  2. Only healthy blood is used
  3. Your baby’s blood type is identified so the correct type of blood is used.

7.We also try to limit the number of different donors your baby is exposed to. If you have any questions, please ask to talk with the MD/NNP.

WHY DO WE TRANSFUSE BABIES

1.The most common reason a baby receives a blood transfusion is to replace blood that has been used.

a.Premature or sick babies often use up their blood to help themselves get well and may not be able to replace it fast enough.

2.A baby may be transfused for any of the following:

  1. To replace blood drawn for needed lab work
  2. To add red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout the body
  3. To add platelets when their level get low
  4. To help maintain a normal blood pressure.

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF A BABY NEEDS BLOOD

1.We check your baby very carefully. Some of the things we look at to see if your baby needs a transfusion are:

  1. Heart rate
  2. Blood pressure
  3. Breathing rate
  4. Apnea

2.You will be notified if your baby needs a transfusion of some type, and asked to sign consent for the transfusion.

CAN I DONATE BLOOD FOR MY BABY

1.Yes, it may be possible to donate blood for your baby’s future use.

a.Talk with the baby’s nurse about being a “directed donor”

b.Moms who delivered less than 6 weeks ago cannot donate blood.

2.If you are ill or are on certain medicines you may not be able to donate blood.

3.It takes approximately 5-7 days to test your blood to be sure it’s OK to use. If your baby needs blood right away the hospital will use its’ own blood supply.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN MY BABY GETS A TRANSFUSION

1.Your baby will get the transfusion through an IV.

2.During the transfusion your baby will be monitored closely.

3.The transfusion may take up to 2 hours to infuse.

4.You may still visit at your baby’s bedside during the baby’s transfusion.

a.Talk with your baby’s nurse about visiting during the transfusion.

Reviewed/Revised: 02/03…..08/11

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