Guidelines on transfusion for fetuses, neonates and older children

Abstract

1 Hospitals should develop policies that help to minimize exposure of infants to multiple donors (see 7.1.4). 2 Minimize phlebotomy where possible: agree a local policy on the frequency and types of regular blood tests required, collecting small samples, and using small-volume laboratory analysers and near-patient testing. 3 Hospital policies should ensure that paedipacks are available for emergency use by maternity and neonatal units (Appendix 1, Table b; see 7.2). The laboratory should be notified once they have been used.