Explain the Transfusion of Blood
Blood has been considered as the elixir of life. However, in ancient times, patients were bled to get rid of their foul fluid. Later, as blood was transfused after the discovery of circulation, patients died after receiving transfusion. The blood being transfused from one patient was not compatible with the recipient's. Why is this so? Certainly you would know why, especially now that you have studied about blood groups. Considerable advances in transfusion medicine took place during the two World Wars. During the first world war, the collection and storage of blood was perfected.
During the second world war, individual components of blood were separated. In early 19803, doctors started training in the specialty of blood transfusion and actively participating in patient care. Blood transfusion, therefore, refers to the infusion of blood or blood components into an individual for the treatment of a medical condition (e.g., anaemia, loss of blood due to injury etc.). Transfused blood may be homologous (from a donor) or autologous (previously stored blood from the recipient). It is important to note that blood transfusion is only to be given when there is no alternative. Though blood transfusion is safe, the main risk of transfusion is being given blood of the wrong group or a smaller risk of catching an infection. To ensure you receive the right blood, the clinical staffs makes careful identification checks before any transfusion.