- Complications Of Blood Administration

 

Hypocalcemia:

   
   

Stored blood contains citrate which is used as an anti-coagulant.  Citrate binds to ionized calcium and significantly lowers cacium levels.  Checking chemistries along with post-transfusion HCT is a good idea.  Replace with Calcium Gluconate.

 

« PREVIOUS FASCINATING TOPIC

NEXT FASCINATING TOPIC »

 

Copyright 2009, Samos Alixopulos, ICU RN