THESE guidelines have been prepared to assist the ordering physician in selecting the proper blood component for obtaining and maintaining hemostasis. While it is not possible to detail every clinical situation for which these components may be indicated, these guidelines will cover most important states. Since these guidelines were developed for adult patients, they may not apply in all cases for pediatric transfusions. Also, these guidelines do not eliminate the need for expert consultation in this complex area of medical practice, and in situations that involve very complex massive bleeding physicians may not be able to adhere to them.
It should be understood that adherence to parameters does not guarantee a successful outcome. Rather, these parameters are provided as an educational tool to assist physicians in providing quality care. If equally valid parameters or views advanced by other respected groups are applicable, the physician is, of course, free to follow