Conclusion
Critically ill children should be evaluated individually to determine the need for RBC transfusion therapy, taking care to avoid overtransfusion. Transfusion decisions should be based on clinical assessment and not on laboratory values alone. As a general recommendation, for critically ill patients with hemodynamically stable anemia, a restrictive strategy for RBC transfusion (Hb level: <7 g/dl) is equally as effective as a liberal transfusion strategy (Hb level: <10 g/dl). RBC transfusions should not be used to treat anemia that can be corrected with a nontransfusion therapy (e.g., iron supplements). RBC transfusions should also not be used as a source of blood volume, or simply to improve a sense of well-being.
Pediatr Health. 2010;4(2):201-208. © 2010 Future Medicine Ltd.
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