A variety of patient information leaflets are available for free from NHS Blood and Transplant and should be given to the appropriate patients prior to transfusion as listed below:

N.B. Patient information leaflets should be given retrospectively prior to discharge if not given to patient prior to transfusion

• Will I need a blood transfusion? – to be given to every patient who may require a red blood cell transfusion
• Information for patients who have received an unexpected blood transfusion – to be given to any patient who did not provide consent for transfusion prior to administration or may not be aware they received a transfusion
• Will I need a platelet transfusion? – to be given to every patient who may require a platelet transfusion
• Will your child need a plasma transfusion? – information for parents of babies and children under the age of 16 who may require fresh frozen plasma
• Information for patients needing irradiated blood – to be given to every patient requiring any irradiated blood product
• Children receiving a blood transfusion? – information for parents of children who may require a blood transfusion (also contains comic / sticker book for the child)
• Will my baby need a blood transfusion? – information for parents of babies who may require a blood transfusion
• Iron in your diet – should be given as appropriate in pre-op assessment clinics

The above leaflets are available in a variety of different languages and may be downloaded here.

Please contact the Blood Transfusion Laboratory (ext: 48350) or Karen Mead (ext: 48358) for more information and ordering details.

North Bristol NHS Trust Specific Leaflet:
NBT specific patient information leaflets are available and should be given to the appropriate patients as listed below:

• Advice Following a Blood Transfusion – information for patients who are transfused and discharged on the same day.
• Declining a blood transfusion - information for patients about their right to decline a blood transfusion.