White blood cells are used to fight infection. Platelets are used to prevent bleeding. Plasma contains a variety of important substances, some of which also help to prevent bleeding. Blood from a donor can be separated into components such as red blood cells, platelets, plasma and substances in plasma such as albumin and clotting factors. A transfusion occurs when you receive a particular blood component through a tube which is often hooked-up to a vein in your arm.
Blood is collected from healthy volunteer donors.
Blood is not used in transfusions if there are any concerns that it may transmit disease. Transfusions are necessary to replace certain blood components which are at low levels in your blood. Since blood is necessary to provide oxygen to your body, fight infection and control bleeding, it is important that you have an adequate level of the different blood components in your blood. Your doctor can explain what specific blood components you require and why. During a transfusion, you will be watched closely by your nurse or physician.