Blood products

Abstract

Blood components, commonly transfused in the intensive care unit (ICU), include packed red blood cells, platelets, plasma, and cryoprecipitate. The indications, dosing, and expectations for each will be discussed, in turn. Components occasionally transfused include albumin and factor concentrates. Although some indications of the latter are controversial and extensive discussions are beyond the scope of this chapter, a brief mention of their use is warranted. © 2010 Springer-Verlag US.