| Abstract: | BACKGROUND: Three types of plasma are widely available for transfusion. Two plasma components, FFP donor retested (FFP-DR), and solvent/detergent-treated plasma (SDP), are now considered to be safer from infectious complications than FFP. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A large regional blood center attempted to provide FFP-DR exclusively to all its 42 hospitals. Significant planning, increases in computer capabilities, and expansion of component storage areas were completed before initiation of this program. RESULTS: During the first 6 months of the FFP-DR program, the blood center was not able to supply the entire region exclusively with FFP-DR. Consequently, SDP was utilized to supplement the program and to successfully and completely convert the region's 42 hospitals to the use of safer plasma. CONCLUSION: Two new plasma components were utilized to completely convert a blood service region to the use of safer plasma. |
