4. Less is more for transfusions
Based upon the current risks of blood transfusions and controlled studies of transfusion efficacy, the best available evidence for transfusion therapy indicates that a more conservative approach to blood transfusions not only saves blood but improves patient outcomes (less is more).
Hebert PC, Wells G, Blajchman MA et al. A multicenter, randomized, controlled clinical trial of transfusion requirements in critical care. Transfusion Requirements in Critical Care Investigators, Canadian Critical Care Trials Group. N Engl J Med 1999;340:409-17.
Corwin HL. Anemia and red blood cell transfusion in the critically ill. Semin Dial 2006;19:513-6.
