Epidemiology of single-unit transfusion. A one-year experience in a community hospital

The transfusion practices of an 850-bed community hospital are reviewed from Jan 1, 1962, through Jan 1, 1963. Twenty-nine percent (855 of 2,921) transfused patients received a single unit of whole blood or packed red blood cells. Eighty-two percent of single-unit transfusions were given to women, and 93% were related to surgical or obstetric situations. In patients undergoing common operative procedures, 62% had normal vital signs and hematocrit readings before transfusion. Sixty-seven percent of all patients had normal hematocrit readings prior to transfusion. One third of the single-unit transfusions were considered justified, and two thirds were regarded as questionable or unnecessary.