Blood transfusions

When were blood groups discovered?

In 1901

Who discovered blood groups?

Karl Landsteiner

What were the challenges of using blood in blood transfusions?

Blood couldn’t be stored as it would clot straight away, so new methods needed to be discovered of storing blood so that it could travel distances

What was the impact of Albert Hustin?

He discovered that glucose and sodium stopped clotting processes ensuring that blood could be bottled, packed in ice and taken to where it was needed by surgeons operating after they add sodium citrate

What did Charles Dew do?

He was an American surgeon who found new ways to store and transport blood and was in charge of the Blood for Britain campaign which began during WW2

What was the Blood for Britain campaign?

It involved US citizens donating blood which was then transported to Britain - large blood banks were also opened in the US

What is blood dehydration?

This formed blood plasma, which was easier to store and transport, and was discovered in 1940