6. Transfusion triggers

Key points

• Consideration of pre-operative ordering
• Understanding “top-up” transfusion 
• Restrictive transfusion / transfusion alternatives 
• Electronic blood order schedules where used
• RBC /platelets/plasma
• For specific patient population, see Chapter 11. Specialist patient groups

Rationale

Transfusion triggers need to be considered by the resident doctors with aim to adhere appropriate transfusion guidelines and thresholds and to avoid unnecessary transfusions that may be harmful to the patient as well. 

Links to resources (where available)

Triggers for transfusion of blood and blood products

Transfusion thresholds for guiding red blood cell transfusion

Transfusion trigger: when to transfuse?

Electronic blood ordering schedules to manage workflows for blood utilization