ABSTRACT
Having established a rationale for discussing the risks and benefits o f blood transfusion, it is then important to have a consistent process. There are a number o f ways by which this can be achieved. Providing patients with printed or audio visual material in a timely manner in relation to the transfusion may be helpful (these materials can be provided to custodians if the patient is unable to make such an informed choice). It is important, however, that any materials made avail able should be in a format that is comprehensible to the patient; for example, the language used should be simple in order to facilitate comprehension and a lan guage other than English may be appropriate in certain geographical locations. These materials, however, are only a supplement to, and not a substitute for, a discussion with the patient or with the patients' representative, by a physician or some other informed discussant, such as a nurse, nurse practitioner, or a physi cians' assistant. The need for a blood transfusion should first be outlined. Possible risks should then be discussed with alternatives if relevant. An opportunity needs to be offered to the patient to raise any questions or concerns, they may have regarding transfusion.
