Blood transfusion therapy is a complex process with a number of variables to be taken into consideration. The success of this therapy depends on the doctor who assesses the patient and orders the transfusion, the medical laboratory technician who processes the request and performs the appropriate tests, the transport personnel, the nurse or other clinical personnel who sets up the transfusion and monitors the patient and also the managers and policy makers who provide the resources to make blood transfusion safe.

Transfusing blood and its products has become an integral part of modern health care. Appropriately used, it can improve the quality of life and prevent morbidity and mortality. It remains the most commonly performed tissue transplant. However over the years it is constantly under pressure by concern over safety, cost and availability. Despite rigorous process and procedures in place to ensure safe blood transfusion, the risk of complication still remains. Therefore there is a need to ensure appropriateness of transfusion.

These guidelines are intended to provide a quick reference to practicing clinicians in the use of blood or blood components. Sound clinical judgement and care are still paramount in the process of blood transfusion.