Learning Objectives

• Blood donations in Canada play a critical role in various medical treatments and surgeries (CSMLS COMPETENCY 2.11 AND MLPAO COMPETENCY).

Importance of Blood Donations

• Essential for Healthcare: Blood products are crucial for surgeries, cancer treatments, trauma care, organ transplants, and childbirths.

• Safe Blood Saves Lives: Properly screened and tested blood can prevent the transmission of diseases like HIV and Hepatitis C.

• Canada's Reputation: Canada is recognized for having one of the safest blood supplies in the world due to strict testing and processing protocols.

Tainted Blood Scandal (1980s-90s)

• Thousands of Canadians infected with HIV and Hepatitis C from contaminated blood.

• Krever Commission (1993-1997) investigation led to significant reforms in blood safety.

• Canadian Blood Services (CBS) was established in 1998 as a response to the crisis. It operates independently to manage blood safety across Canada (except Quebec).

Canadian Blood Services (CBS)

• Founded: 1998, operating as a non-profit.

• Coverage: All provinces and territories except Quebec, headquartered in Ottawa.

• Mission: To ensure a reliable and safe supply of blood, plasma, stem cells, and organs for patients.

Responsibilities of CBS

• Collects, tests, and distributes blood and plasma.

• Manages a registry for stem cell donors and organ/tissue donations.

• Conducts research and innovation in transfusion medicine.

• Prepares for emergencies such as natural disasters and pandemics.

Blood Donation Process

• CBS relies on voluntary donations; recruitment through public outreach and appointments.

• Donation Steps:

  • Health screening and hemoglobin checks.

  • Actual donation (5-10 minutes for whole blood, 90 minutes for plasma/platelets).

• Each donation undergoes testing for infectious diseases before distribution.

Blood Donation Eligibility Criteria

• Age: 17+ (16 with consent).

• Weight: Minimum 50 kg (110 lbs).

• Health: Must be well on the donation day. ID required for first-time donors.

  • Deferral Reasons: Recent travel, tattoos, medical conditions, medications.

Types of Blood Donations

• Temporary Deferrals: Pregnancy, dental work, recent tattoos.

• Indefinite Deferrals: History of IV drug use, certain infections.

• Permanent Deferrals: Conditions like positive HIV or Hepatitis C tests.

Donation Frequency

• Whole Blood: Every 56 days.

• Plasma: Every 14 days (up to 26 times/year).

• Platelets: Every 7 days (up to 24 times/year).

Collection Procedures

• Donor preparation includes vein identification and skin disinfection.

• Blood collected with a 16-gauge needle into primary and satellite bags.

• Post-collection care involves Rest and refreshments.

• Potential Reactions: Dizziness, fatigue, bruising; prevention tips include hydration and proper nutrition.

Separation and Testing of Blood Components

• Components: Red blood cells, plasma, platelets separated after donation.

• Blood undergoes strict testing for HIV, Hepatitis, Syphilis, and others before use.

• Important for safety and transfusion compatibility.

Plasma Collection and Use

• Plasma separated from blood or collected via apheresis and processed into products like Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) and Cryoprecipitate.

• Uses of FFP: Replenishing clotting factors in emergencies, liver disease, trauma.

Ordering Blood Products

• Hospitals order blood products based on needs, with routine and emergency requests.

• Specialized transport systems ensure temperature control during deliveries.

Hospital Protocol Upon Arrival of Blood

• Upon arrival, blood is inspected for temperature and proper labeling; compatibility testing is performed to ensure safe transfusions.

Key Points for Safety and Effectiveness

• CBS Safety Measures: Rigorous screening and adherence to protocols.

• Impact of Proper Blood Management: Direct correlation between safety measures and positive health outcomes for patients receiving blood transfusions.

One blood donation has the potential to save up to three lives.