Transfusion
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Most published reviews and audits of blood and blood component transfusion have focused on the issue of overtransfusion and on the inappropriate use of red cell components. There is growing concern that efforts to curb unnecessary transfusions may result in a trend toward undertransfusion of patients. There is little published information that addresses this issue or the magnitude of this practice. ⋯ Red cell and platelet transfusions were appropriately ordered for all patients who met the transfusion criteria. Undertransfusion is not a problem at this institution according to the criteria established. It is recommended that other institutions expand their blood utilization audits to include investigation for evidence of undertransfusion. Further research regarding the issue of undertransfusion is warranted and could be expanded to include other components.