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Definition

Transfusion is the process of transferring whole blood or blood components from a donor to a recipient.

Purpose

Transfusions are given to restore lost blood, to improve clotting time, and to improve the ability of the blood to deliver oxygen to the body's tissues. About 32,000 pints of donated blood are transfused each day in the United States.

In the United States, blood collection is strictly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA has rules for the collection, processing, storage, and transportation of blood and blood products. In addition, the American Red Cross, the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB), and most states have specific rules for the collection and processing of blood. The main purpose of regulation is to ensure the quality of...