Transfusion of Red Cells and Blood Components in Stressed, Trauma, and Critical Care Patients

This chapter will discuss (i) compensatory mechanisms in anemia and the transfusion decision in trauma and critical care patients; (ii) the controversy about optimal values for hemoglobin (Hb) and oxygen transport in critical situations; (iii) the current uses and indications for blood transfusion; (iv) the complications of blood transfusion; and (v) the current uses and indications for platelets, fresh frozen plasma (FFP), and cryoprecipitate in bleeding patients.