This is a practical guide for safe and effective use of blood as a drug. It has a practical focus, with a format that blends transfusion science with clinical concerns, and includes contributions from the areas of pathology, internal medicine, surgery, anaesthesiology and paediatrics. This new edition includes 15 new chapters, and the Organization of Blood Services section has been restructured to guide the reader through the intensified regulatory environment and the use of computers a control devices. The text also discusses how blood banks can meet the FDA's tight new guidelines, using audit and error management as the key to process control.

Get a quick, expert overview of risk management in transfusion medicine from Dr. James Mills Barbeau. This practical resource presents a summary of today’s state-of-the-art techniques for reducing harm during all phases of transfusion practice, including blood collection, testing, processing, clinical assessment, and transfusion. It’s an easy-to-read, one-stop resource for managing and mitigating the various levels of risk in a variety of transfusion settings and scenarios. Presents a well-rounded perspective on quality assurance, blood supply testing, clinical risk, ethical and legal considerations, and transfusion-transmitted infectious diseases. Demonstrates how transfusion risk-management programs add value to health care institutions by enhancing a culture of safety, improving the institution’s reputation, and improving the bottom line. Consolidates today’s available information on risk management in blood transfusion medicine into one convenient resource.

In summary, the technical, scientific and medical aspects of transfusion me dicine continue to be critical. We all must find ways to provide a safer unit of blood and blood components. However, there must be a realization by all in volved in the profession that the management and administration aspects of transfusion medicine deserve equal attention, respect and support. Why? It is very simple! Without all aspectsoftransfusion medicine working togetherfor the common good - care ofthe patient - we will all fail. References 1. Standards for Blood Banks and Transfusion Services, American Association of Blood Banks, 14th edition, Arlington, VA, USA, 1991. 2. Blood Assurance Act of 1979 (S.161O), Senator Richard S. Schweiker, United States Senate, Washington, DC, USA, July 31,1979. 3. Administrative Guidelines for Blood Banks, American Association of Blood Banks, Arlington, VA, 1989. 4. "You're absolutely right: We goofed". Howard Upton, Southwest Airlines Spirit, September 1991:24. 5. Administrative Manual, Volume II, American Association of Blood Banks, Arlington, VA, USA, 1987.