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Low-concentration morphine infusion does not compromise packed red blood cell transfusion
E Wozniak1, G A Finley, K C Dooley
1Department of Pathology, IWK Health Center and Dalhousie University, 5850 University Avenue, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 3G9, Canada
Journal of Pain and Symptom Management
|August 10, 2001
Summary
Continuous morphine infusions and red blood cell transfusions can be safely co-administered in pediatric patients. This finding eliminates the need for additional intravenous access or interrupted pain management during blood transfusions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric critical care medicine
- Pharmacology
- Hematology
Background:
- Current regulations restrict co-administration of red blood cell transfusions and continuous morphine infusions via the same intravenous line.
- This restriction necessitates additional venous access or interruption of essential pain management for critically ill children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and feasibility of co-administering packed red blood cells with morphine infusions.
- To determine if contact with morphine causes hemolysis in red blood cells.
Main Methods:
- Packed red blood cells were exposed to morphine solutions at concentrations of 0.1 mg/mL and 1.0 mg/mL.
- The exposed red blood cells were infused through a simulated central venous catheter system.
- Hemolysis was assessed by comparing exposed samples with control samples.
Main Results:
- No evidence of hemolysis was observed in packed red blood cells that had been in contact with morphine.
- Infusion through a mock central venous catheter system did not induce red blood cell damage.
Conclusions:
- Co-administration of red blood cell transfusions and continuous morphine infusions through the same line is safe.
- This practice can prevent the need for additional intravenous lines or interrupted analgesic therapy in pediatric patients.