Bloedunits

Bloedunits are the Dutch term for standardized units of blood or blood components used for transfusion. The most common whole-blood unit is typically about 450 milliliters, but many transfusion services separate whole blood into components such as red blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Blood units are used to treat acute blood loss, anemia, and bleeding disorders, and are allocated based on patient needs and compatibility.

Collection and processing: Blood units come from voluntary donors after screening for health and infectious diseases. Each unit is tested for ABO and Rh(D) type and for infectious markers; additional processing may include leukoreduction and irradiation for certain recipients. Components are prepared by separating whole blood into red cells, platelets, plasma, and cryoprecipitate.

Storage and shelf life: Red blood cell units are stored at approximately 1-6°C for up to about 42 days, depending on preservative solutions. Platelet concentrates are stored at 20-24°C with agitation for up to 5–7 days. Plasma is kept frozen and can be stored for up to one year or longer, depending on the country. Cryoprecipitate is stored frozen for long-term use.

Safety and regulation: Transfusion medicine follows strict compatibility testing, donor screening, and adverse-event monitoring. Risks include transfusion reactions, alloimmunization, and infectious disease transmission, though the latter is greatly reduced by screening and testing. Blood services are regulated nationally and often coordinate with international guidelines to ensure a safe and adequate supply.