Pedi‐Pack Transfusion in a Newborn Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

Transfusions (291) using 221 pediatric frozen red blood cell packs (Pedi-Packs) were given to 141 newborn babies and infants in the newborn intensive care unit. In 18 patients, 47 transfusions were studied for transfusion and clinical characteristics. Two possible hemolytic episodes were described in detail and remain unexplained. Blood loss for laboratory tests averaged 3.1 ml/kg per day spent in the newborn intensive care unit. The rise in hematocrit was excellent. The transfusion of thawed pediatric red blood cell packs was convenient, safe and effective. Because of pretesting possibilities with the use of this source of red blood cells, one of the problems associated with a walking donor program was eliminated.