An experimental study on RBC count and serum potassium concentration changes during compression transfusion of WBC-removal whole blood

Objective

To observe changes in RBC count, changes, RBC morphology, and serum potassium during compressed transfusion of WBC-removal whole blood.

Methods

Prepared human WBC-removal whole blood and connected transfusion apparatus with different sizes of intravenous detaining needles (18G, 20G, 22G and 24G). Observed RBC count and serum potassium concentration under different pressures (100 mmHg, 200 mmHg, and 300 mmHg) as blood flowed out of the pinhead end of the intravenous detaining needle. Samples obtained with the 20G needle were smeared on glass slides, and RBC morphologic changes were observed under an oil immersion lens.

Results

RBC count and serum potassium changed slightly under different pressures with different sizes of intravenous detaining needles as blood flowed through the transfusion apparatus. In addition, the observation of blood samples under a common light microscope revealed that coarse-prick, oblong, and spindle cell counts in the visual fields increased gradually as the pressure increased. Additionally, a portion of cells had undergone splintering.

Conclusions

While applying 18G, 20G, 22G and 24G intravenous detaining needles for blood transfusion under less than 300 mmHg of pressure, no significant RBC count change was found in blood samples in the short term. However, there were significant RBC morphologic changes. The results could offer more basis to ensure the clinical safety of patients undergoing blood transfusion.