Assessment of the Effect of Storage Duration on Packed Red Blood Cell (PRBC) Viability using Hematocrit and Hemoglobin Levels
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20258255Keywords:
packed red blood cells, PRBC storage, hematocrit, hemoglobin, erythrocyte viability, storage duration, blood transfusion, quality control, transfusion safety, blood bankingAbstract
This study investigated the effect of storage duration on the viability of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) by monitoring hematocrit (Hct) and hemoglobin (Hb) levels at four intervals: Day 0, Day 10, Day 20, and Day 30. A total of forty PRBC units were stored under standard conditions (2–6 °C) and analyzed using validated laboratory methods. The research employed a descriptive-experimental design to evaluate changes in erythrocyte integrity over time and assess the suitability of stored PRBCs for clinical transfusion.
Findings revealed a statistically significant decline in both Hct and Hb values over the storage period, reflecting progressive biochemical and structural alterations in erythrocytes. Despite these reductions, PRBCs maintained clinically acceptable levels of Hct and Hb up to Day 30, indicating that properly stored units remain suitable for transfusion. The results highlight the importance of monitoring Hct and Hb as cost-effective indicators of PRBC quality, informing inventory management and transfusion practices.
The study concludes that storage duration has a measurable impact on PRBC viability and emphasizes the need for strict adherence to storage protocols and quality control measures to ensure safe and effective transfusion. These findings provide practical guidance for blood banks and clinicians, optimizing patient outcomes and enhancing transfusion safety.
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