Blood transfusion

A blood transfusion involves taking blood from one person (a donor), processing it, then giving it to someone else (a patient). If you have questions or concerns about blood transfusion, please read the answers to these frequently asked questions.

Blood transfusions are fairly common procedures that save and enhance life. The risks of serious side effects are low as the blood is thoroughly tested and matched for compatibility.

You can find out about more about the process at NHS Choices.

The Patient Blood Management team works with patients, their GPs and hospital staff to ensure the right treatment for you. They will only consider a transfusion when there is clear evidence that it is the best therapeutic treatment available. 

Sometimes there may be alternatives to having a blood transfusion. You can also reduce the need for a transfusion following major surgery by maintaining your iron levels. It’s important to discuss this with your doctor.

Some diseases are caused by excessive numbers of cells in the blood. Therapeutic Apheresis temporarily takes blood from a patient, removes unwanted components, then returns the treated blood to the body.  

Archie Ramshaw had blood transfusions every 3 weeks for a decade to help manage a rare blood disorder. However, after a bone marrow transplant in 2018, Archie is finally able to move on with his life.