Blood administration in perioperative settings

Blood administration safety is the result of accurate identification of patients to blood products before transfusions, appropriate care and administration of blood products, and rapid recognition and intervention when adverse reactions occur. Health care institutions have an obligation to provide staff members clearly defined, comprehensive policies and procedures related to blood administration. These policies and procedures should be combined with appropriate personnel orientation and periodic training reviews, as well as oversight of blood transfusion practices within the institution. Perioperative nurses should know and follow institutional policies and procedures on blood administration exactly, being aware of the indications and functions of basic blood products, monitor patients for signs of adverse reactions to blood administration, and intervene promptly when adverse reactions are recognized.