How should blood products be stored until they are ready for transfusion?

Blood products must be stored in a designated blood fridge that maintains the appropriate temperature to ensure their safety and efficacy. Blood components, such as red blood cells, platelets, and plasma, have specific storage requirements that are critical for preserving their functionality and minimizing the risk of bacterial growth or degradation. Typically, red blood cells are stored at temperatures between 1°C and 6°C, while platelets are kept at room temperature but in a controlled environment.

Using a specialized blood fridge ensures that all products are stored under optimal conditions, allowing them to remain safe for transfusion up until the point they are needed. Regular monitoring of the fridge temperature and validation of the equipment also play essential roles in maintaining the safety of blood products.

Storing blood products in a standard refrigerator or at room temperature does not provide the necessary controls and could lead to temperature fluctuations that compromise the blood's integrity. Additionally, a non-sterile environment poses significant risks of contamination, which could have serious adverse effects on patients receiving transfusions.