Blood Warmers

It is not necessary to warm blood except in unusual circumstances such as extremely rapid massive transfusion, occasionally in exchange transfusion of the newborn and, perhaps, in some patients whose plasma contains a potent cold agglutinin. Blood is usually warmed in circumstances where complications associated with transfusion of large volumes of cold blood may be encountered.

The following recommendations were issued by the Health Protection Branch of Health and Welfare Canada following a fatality due to a malfunctioning blood warmer used during surgery:

"If blood warmers are being used they should be tested before use to ensure that the temperature regulators are operating properly. The temperature of the blood should also be monitored."

• It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Other operating requirements are necessary for equipment used in transfusion.