The Fenwal CS3000 inline pack is acceptable for donor blood sampling

A blood sampling pack is available on closed system apheresis kits for the Fenwal CS3000 blood cell separator to facilitate same day donor testing while maintaining the closed system. Conceivably, the accuracy of complete blood counts (CBC) performed using pack samples might be compromised by clotting in the pack, by adherence of blood cells to the inner surface of the pack, or by dilution of the sample with priming fluid--should it inadvertently contaminate the pack. We studied paired blood samples collected simultaneously via the pack and a separate venipuncture in 17 donors. When collected properly, CBC values from pack and vein were nearly identical. Even when purposely contaminated with saline, pack values were lowered only slightly. Thus, the inline pack permits accurate sampling of donor blood for CBC while maintaining a closed system.