The most significant one is called Rh-D and when it is present, red cells are called Rh positive. The Rh-D factor is found on the surface of red blood cells of 85 percent of our population, making their blood Rh positive. The remaining 15 percent of the population lacks the Rh-D factor, and their blood is called Rh negative. Go back to top. Plasma supplies coagulation factors and is used to help patients stop bleeding.
Red cells carry oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and remove carbon dioxide.
Red blood cells are used for accident victims, surgery patients, and to treat anemia. Platelets control bleeding by helping repair injured blood vessels. Platelets are used to replace others destroyed by disease or cancer therapy. Cryoprecipitate helps the blood to clot and is used to control bleeding during surgery. Cryoprecipitate is also used for people with von Willebrand's disease.