What happens on transfusion day

Before each transfusion, a blood sample is taken to confirm your group, screen for any new antibodies, and cross-match compatible units. Your pre-transfusion haemoglobin is measured — this is the “trough” your team tracks over time.

The blood is given slowly through a drip, usually over about 2–3 hours per unit (slower if your starting haemoglobin is very low or your heart needs extra care). Staff monitor you throughout — tell them straight away about fever, itching, breathlessness or back pain.

To make transfusion day smoother: stay hydrated, bring something to pass the time, and afterwards log the details (units, your pre-transfusion Hb, any reaction). MUIY’s Transfusion log captures this and powers your next-transfusion forecast.