Educators

Plasma and Components: Learning Objectives

 

Medical Importance

Appropriate selection and use of plasma, coagulation components and blood derivatives can be life-saving. Inappropriate use of blood components is costly, wastes a scarce resource, and can expose patients to unnecessary hazards.

Objectives

  1. Be able to list two indications for transfusing fresh frozen plasma (FFP).
  2. Be able to list the three major therapeutic constituents of cryoprecipitate, and name a clinical indication for its use.
  3. Be able to name at least one common indication for each of the following blood derivatives: factor VIII concentrates, prothrombin complex concentrates, albumin, intravenous immune globulin.
  4. List the main coagulation abnormalities that occur after massive transfusion, and outline the appropriate treatment for each.