Transfusion medicine

Canadian Blood Services supports best practices in transfusion medicine through the development of educational resources. Written by subject-matter experts from across Canada, our transfusion medicine resources support clinical practice and help health-care professionals stay current in an ever-changing field.

If you are a health-care professional working in transfusion medicine and have a comment or suggestions for new resources, please get in touch.

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Aditi Khandelwal
Transfusion Medicine Specialist and Hematologist

Surveillance report

We are pleased to present this annual report describing transmissible blood-borne infection surveillance. High quality and timely surveillance is central to the safety of the blood supply. This includes monitoring of transmissible disease markers that the blood is tested for (including bacteria) and investigation of any reports of possible transfusion transmission, as well as a horizon scan for any new pathogens that may pose a risk.

Vein to vein: A summary of the blood system in Canada

This chapter of the Clinical Guide to Transfusion provides an overview of the blood system in Canada, including the regulations and standards that help ensure a safe, secure and sustainable blood system.

Blood components

This chapter provides an overview of red blood cells, whole blood leukocytes reduced, platelets, plasma and cryoprecipitate processing at Canadian Blood Services. Additional information on component dosing, indications/contraindications and alternatives are included.
Announcement

Latest updates from the National Advisory Committee on Blood and Blood Products (as of February 26, 2025)

New

Updated