Components do not require a cross-match but the blood group of the patient must be known before compatible components can be issued. These always require a fresh blood administration set. If a blood group has not been performed then a transfusion sample must be sent. A request form is required. In emergency situations a telephone order can be made giving all the details required and a request form must be sent as soon as possible. Specific details of each blood components can be found in the Trust Blood Transfusion Policy. Blood Bank provides red cells, platelets, fresh frozen plasma (including virucidally inactivated) and cryoprecipitate.

NB – Octaplas is obtained from blood from Blood Bank at QEHB after consultation with Haematology consultants.