[The blood bank as a consultation service]

This is a 6-month prospective clinical trial which evaluates the importance that blood bank may have as a consultation service for in-patient care. From January 31-July 31 1994, the blood bank physicians gave 108 consults which helped the consulting physician in an adequate diagnostic and therapeutic management of transfusion-related problems. The main reasons for consultation were coagulopathies, suspicion of refractoriness to platelet concentrates, and presence of antibodies against red cell antigens. The main underlying disorders were hematological, surgical, hepatic, renal and rheumatic diseases. We conclude that our blood bank as a consultation service was helpful in improving the transfusional management of our patients.