Post-Transfusing the Patient
SANBS Guideline - Updated August 2023
Empty blood and blood product bags
Flushing of lines
Do not flush administration sets. Normal saline can be used, especially in paediatric patients to ensure the benefit of the full prescribed dose. Take care not to flush under pressure, as this may dislodge debris from the filter.
Empty blood and blood product bags
Empty bags should be retained in the ward fridge for 48 hours. In case of delayed transfusion reactions, the bags should be sent to the blood bank (with the appropriate post-transfusion samples) to perform a transfusion reaction investigation. After 48 hours, the empty bags should be discarded according to the hospital’s policy on discarding of medical waste.
Disposal of unused units
Unused units are not to be discarded in the ward and must be returned to the blood bank with the reason why the product was not transfused. Complete traceability of every unit is essential and this requires full compliance with the Lookback programme.
Navigation to a Safe Blood Transfusion - Updated August 2023