NHLBI Educational Materials Catalog: Facts About Blood Transfusion
Facts About Blood Transfusion
Written for patients and caregivers, this easy to read fact sheet describes this safe, common procedure in which blood is given to you through an intravenous (IV) line in one of your blood vessels. Blood transfusions are done to replace blood lost during surgery or a serious injury; or if your body can’t make blood properly because of an illness. Blood transfusions are very common. Each year, almost 5 million Americans need a blood transfusion. Explains everything you need to know about before, during and after this procedure. Contains links to other online resources.