Which population is particularly vulnerable to risks associated with expired blood products?

Patients undergoing surgery are particularly vulnerable to risks associated with expired blood products due to several reasons. Surgical procedures often involve blood loss, and patients may require blood transfusions to maintain their blood volume and overall stability during and after surgery. When surgical patients receive blood products, the safety and efficacy of these products are crucial; expired products can lead to serious complications, as they may not function correctly to support the patient's physiological needs or may carry an increased risk of adverse reactions.

In contrast, healthy individuals, those receiving routine vaccinations, and athletes in training typically do not face the same acute risks that come with the immediate need for blood products, particularly in a critical context like surgery. Thus, the requirement for high-quality, safe blood products is paramount for patients undergoing surgical procedures, making them the group most affected by the use of expired blood products.