The decision to transfuse a hospitalized patient must balance the known risks of transfusion with the need to provide adequate tissue oxygenation and the appropriate utilization of blood as a scarce resource. The minimum tolerated hemoglobin level is not well established, and considerable variation exists in intensivists' transfusion practices. Conventional transfusion triggers of 100 g/l have been challenged by reports indicating that aerobic metabolism is supported by hemoglobin levels of 50 g/l or less. Evidence from randomized trials also indicates that withholding transfusions may result in improved outcomes. Arbitrary numeric hemoglobin triggers, however, cannot supercede intervention based on individual physiologic need and clinical circumstances. © 2004 BioMed Central Ltd.
CITATION STYLE
Marshall, J. C. (2004, June). Transfusion trigger: When to transfuse? Critical Care. https://doi.org/10.1186/cc2846
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