Discuss Cleveland Clinic Blood Storage Protocol & Risk to Patients

In summary, a study conducted at the Cleveland Clinic has found that using blood that is more than 14 days old in transfusions increases the risk of death by nearly two-thirds. This is due to the leakage of potassium and other components from the red blood cells, which can lead to blood poisoning and organ failure. The study also highlights the importance of using fresh blood for newborns, as they are particularly sensitive to the effects of older blood. Additionally, the longer blood is stored, the greater the risk of transfusing damaged red blood cells.
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Mk
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http://www.newscientist.com/channel...or-transfusions.html?feedId=online-news_rss20
Doctors at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio have found that patients who receive blood that is more than 14 days old are nearly two-thirds more likely to die than those who get newer blood.

The survey of more than 9000 heart surgery patients also suggests that recipients of older blood are more at risk from blood poisoning and organ failure.
http://content.nejm.org/cgi/content/full/358/12/1229
Oh dear.

Discuss.
 
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The longer red cells are stored the more potassium (and everything else you find inside a red cell) will leak out of the cell and accumulate in the plasma or additive solution they are stored in. This puts you at risk for an immediate non hemolytic transfusion reaction, in this case due to potassium toxicity. This is a huge thing for newborns, they are so senstitive to this that only fresh units can be used in their case.

Plus red cells only have a lifespan of 120 days in the body, this is less when it is in a bag (depending on storage methods this can be prolonged). The longer you wait to transfuse the cells the more the cell membranes will lose integrity, increasing the chance that you will be transfusing hemolyzed cells into the patient, which feeds back to the risk of red cell components leaking out.
 
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As a scientist, it is important to critically evaluate and analyze the findings presented in this article regarding Cleveland Clinic's blood storage protocol and its potential risks to patients. The study conducted by doctors at the Cleveland Clinic presents a concerning result, as it suggests that older blood (more than 14 days old) may increase the risk of death, blood poisoning, and organ failure in patients who receive transfusions.

Firstly, it is important to note that this study was conducted on a large sample size of over 9000 heart surgery patients, which adds strength to the validity of the findings. Additionally, the results were published in a reputable scientific journal, the New England Journal of Medicine, which further supports the credibility of the study.

The study found that patients who received blood that was more than 14 days old had a significantly higher risk of death compared to those who received newer blood. This result is concerning and warrants further investigation to understand the underlying mechanisms and potential factors contributing to this increased risk. It is possible that older blood may have reduced levels of oxygen-carrying capacity, increased levels of inflammatory markers, or other factors that could potentially impact patient outcomes. Further research is needed to determine the exact cause of this increased risk.

Another important finding of this study is the increased risk of blood poisoning and organ failure in recipients of older blood. This highlights the potential consequences of using blood that is beyond the recommended storage period. It is crucial for hospitals and blood banks to adhere to strict storage protocols to ensure that patients are receiving the safest and most effective blood transfusions.

While this study presents concerning results, it is important to note that it is an observational study and cannot establish a cause-effect relationship between older blood and increased risk of death. Other factors, such as underlying health conditions of the patients, could also contribute to the observed outcomes. Therefore, further controlled studies are needed to confirm these findings and rule out any potential confounding factors.

In conclusion, the Cleveland Clinic blood storage protocol and its potential risks to patients is a concerning issue that requires further research and attention. The findings of this study suggest that older blood may increase the risk of death, blood poisoning, and organ failure in transfusion recipients. It is crucial for hospitals and blood banks to carefully consider and adhere to strict storage protocols to ensure the safety and efficacy of blood transfusions for patients.
 

1. What is the purpose of the Cleveland Clinic Blood Storage Protocol?

The Cleveland Clinic Blood Storage Protocol is designed to ensure the safe and proper storage of blood products in order to maintain their quality and efficacy for patient use.

2. What are the specific guidelines of the Cleveland Clinic Blood Storage Protocol?

The Cleveland Clinic Blood Storage Protocol involves strict temperature control, labeling and tracking of blood products, and regular monitoring and maintenance of storage units.

3. What are the potential risks to patients if the Cleveland Clinic Blood Storage Protocol is not followed?

If the Cleveland Clinic Blood Storage Protocol is not followed, there is a risk that blood products may become contaminated or lose their effectiveness, potentially leading to serious health complications for patients who receive them.

4. How is the Cleveland Clinic Blood Storage Protocol monitored and enforced?

The Cleveland Clinic Blood Storage Protocol is monitored and enforced through regular audits and inspections by internal quality control teams, as well as external regulatory agencies such as the FDA.

5. What measures are in place to prevent human error and ensure compliance with the Cleveland Clinic Blood Storage Protocol?

The Cleveland Clinic has implemented training programs and standardized procedures to minimize the risk of human error in blood storage and handling. Additionally, there are strict protocols in place for reporting and addressing any deviations from the protocol.

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