Blood Transfusion Process
Location
Like most medical procedures, a blood transfusion will take place at a hospital or doctor’s office.
Before the Procedure
A nurse or doctor will check the patient’s blood pressure, pulse, and temperature before starting the transfusion.
During the Procedure
The blood transfusion procedure begins when an intravenous (IV) line is placed onto the patient’s body. It is through the IV that the patient will begin to receive the new blood. Depending on the amount of blood, a simple blood transfusion can take between 1-4 hours.
After the Procedure
Following the completion of the blood transfusion, the patient’s vital signs are checked and the IV is removed. For a couple of days after the transfusion, patients may experience some soreness near the puncture for the IV. The patient’s doctor may request a checkup after the transfusion to see the body’s reaction to the new blood.
