Plasma and Components: Learning Objectives
Medical Importance
Appropriate selection and use of plasma, coagulation components and blood derivatives can be life-saving. Inappropriate use of blood components is costly, wastes a scarce resource, and can expose patients to unnecessary hazards.
Objectives
- Be able to list two indications for transfusing fresh frozen plasma (FFP).
- Be able to list the three major therapeutic constituents of cryoprecipitate, and name a clinical indication for its use.
- Be able to name at least one common indication for each of the following blood derivatives: factor VIII concentrates, prothrombin complex concentrates, albumin, intravenous immune globulin.
- List the main coagulation abnormalities that occur after massive transfusion, and outline the appropriate treatment for each.