L.8 Fresh Frozen Plasma Flashcards
(50 cards)
What is the preparation process for Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP)?
FFP is prepared by separating plasma from whole blood and freezing it to −30°C or colder within 6 hours of collection
This process is essential to preserve labile clotting factors, particularly Factors V and VIII.
What is the standard unit volume for Fresh Frozen Plasma?
200–220 mL, although larger volumes (~600 mL) may be collected via apheresis.
What is the shelf life of Fresh Frozen Plasma when stored correctly?
Up to 1 year when stored at −30°C or below.
How must Fresh Frozen Plasma be thawed before transfusion?
In a 37°C water bath using an overwrap or using a microwave plasma thawer at 220°C setting.
What is the ideal time frame for transfusing thawed Fresh Frozen Plasma?
Immediately, ideally within 2–4 hours.
What do AABB guidelines allow for Fresh Frozen Plasma transfusion if not administered immediately?
Up to 24 hours at 1–6°C post-thaw.
What is the typical dosage of Fresh Frozen Plasma per body weight?
10–15 mL/kg body weight.
What clinical response is a key indicator of the effectiveness of Fresh Frozen Plasma?
Cessation of bleeding.
Which laboratory tests may assist in monitoring the effectiveness of Fresh Frozen Plasma?
- PT/INR
- aPTT
- Fibrinogen levels
- Point-of-care testing (ROTEM, TEG)
What blood group compatibility is required for Fresh Frozen Plasma?
FFP is labelled for ABO and RhD groups.
What is the first choice for Fresh Frozen Plasma transfusion regarding ABO compatibility?
FFP from the same ABO group.
What precautions should be taken when using Group A plasma for Group B recipients?
Cautiously.
Why should Group O plasma be avoided unless specific conditions are met?
It contains anti-A and anti-B antibodies.
Under what conditions can Group O plasma be used?
- Low-titre (screened for ‘high-titre’ antibodies)
- Transfusing to a Group O recipient only.
What is special about Group AB plasma?
It lacks anti-A and anti-B, making it a universal plasma donor.
For what situations is Group AB plasma often reserved?
- Infants
- Emergencies.
What was Group AB plasma previously commercialised as?
Uniplas®.
What is an indication for the use of FFP in cases of coagulation factor deficiency?
When specific factor concentrates are unavailable, such as in rare factor deficiencies
Includes inherited coagulation inhibitor deficiencies like antithrombin III, Protein C, and Protein S.
When should FFP be used for warfarin reversal?
For active bleeding or need for emergency surgery
FFP can be used if PCC (Prothromplex® or Octaplex®) is unavailable or contraindicated.
What condition indicates the use of FFP in disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)?
If bleeding is present and coagulopathy is demonstrated
Always guided by lab tests such as PT, aPTT, and fibrinogen.
What is the component ratio in the Massive Transfusion Protocol (MTP) for resuscitation?
1:1:1 ratio of RBCs:FFP:platelets
Guided by lab results and point-of-care coagulation monitoring techniques like ROTEM and TEG.
What is an indication for using FFP in plasma exchange procedures?
For therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) in conditions like TTP
TTP stands for thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.
When should FFP be used for neonatal coagulopathy?
In neonates who are actively bleeding or undergoing invasive procedures
What is the controversy surrounding FFP use in liver disease-associated coagulopathy?
PT/INR is often prolonged in liver disease without bleeding risk
May be justified prior to procedures like liver biopsy in patients with significantly elevated PT.
