Frequency and threshold of the erythrocyte suspension transfusion in the intensive care unit

Objective: Some studies showed that increased blood transfusion is associated with prolonged Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stay and higher mortality rates. However, it is well known that anemia increases tissue hypoxia in the critically ill patient. In this study we aimed to discuss transfusion frequency and threshold values of transfusion in our ICU. Material and Metods: Data of 237 patients hospitalized in the ICU of Sisli Etfal Training and Research Hospital with 7 bed capacity during the year 2011 were analyzed retrospectively. Age, gender, APACHE II risk-score, ICU stay, blood transfusion amount, hemoglobin (Hb) level before transfusion and mortality was recorded. Results: The age of patients age was 44.76±18.55 years, male/female ratio was 130/107 APACHE II score was 18.56±8.12. ICU stay was 10.79±9.87 days. Totally 183 patients were transfused 252 Units of red blood cells (RBC). The Mean Hb level was 8.62±2.2g/dl in the transfused patients. 68 patients were transfused with Hb