What is a Blood Transfusion? Doctor explains the procedure

In this video Dr O'Donovan explains key things you need to know about a blood transfusion.

What is a blood transfusion?

A blood transfusion involves receiving blood or blood components from a donor into your bloodstream through a vein, typically in your arm. It's a procedure used to help people who have lost a significant amount of blood, have a blood disorder, or need to replace certain blood components.

Purpose:
Blood transfusions are used to replenish lost blood, increase the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, and correct clotting problems.

Procedure:
A needle is inserted into a vein, usually in the arm, and a thin tube (cannula) is attached. The blood or blood component is then slowly infused into the bloodstream through this tube.

Monitoring:
While the transfusion is taking place, vital signs like pulse, blood pressure, and temperature are regularly monitored.

Types of Transfusions:
Whole Blood: Contains all blood components (red cells, plasma, platelets).
Red Blood Cell Transfusion: Used to increase the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.

Platelet Transfusion: Used to help with blood clotting.

Plasma Transfusion: Used to help with blood clotting and in some cases, to replace missing proteins.

Duration:
A single unit of blood can take between 2 to 4 hours to administer, depending on the amount needed.

Risks:
Like any medical procedure, blood transfusions have some risks, such as infection, allergic reactions, and, less commonly, serious complication

Content and timestamps:

00:00 Introduction


*Website resources*

NHS UK information - https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/blood-t...

Cleveland Clinic USA - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health...

Mayo Clinic USA - https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-proc...

Video made: May 2025

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