Division of the products into subunits

DEFINITION

Division of a blood product into units of lesser volume.

PRODUCTS THAT CAN BE DIVIDED INTO SUBUNITS

The following blood components may be divided into smaller units: total blood, the different types of concentrations of red blood cells, fresh plasma, platelet pools and concentrations of platelets from a single donor.

HOW IT IS OBTAINED

The abovementioned blood components can be divided into bags to give units of different volumes, according to the transfusional needs. In all cases, it is possible to keep the circuit closed.

CHARACTERISTICS

With the exception of the product volume, which in the paediatric units is less, the rest of the characteristics are the same as the original product.

HANDLING

The subunits can be irradiated.

PRESERVATION AND EXPIRY DATE

In cases where the handling was carried out in closed circuits, the expiry date is the same. If the circuit was open, the expiry time is 24 hours at 4ºC and 6 hours at 22ºC.