Blood Transfusion Question

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I know the recommended size IV for blood is 18 or 20, but what would happen if you transfuse through a 22? Anything bad, or is just not recommended because of the possibility of it clogging?

Specializes in NICU, PICU, educator.

Being from NICU, we transfuse all blood products thru 24 and 26 gauges without a problem. We have had hcts spun on blood from the syringe we get our blood products in and after pushing thru microtubing and the small cath and the change was pretty miniscule. But we are giving a much smaller amount than you all do, but it is the same blood as adults get, just reduced down to packed cells.

In our adult ICU's they hang blood on pumps as do the floors, including peds.

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Specializes in Peds Cardiology,Peds Neuro,Pedi ER,PICU, IV Jedi.
Being from NICU, we transfuse all blood products thru 24 and 26 gauges without a problem. We have had hcts spun on blood from the syringe we get our blood products in and after pushing thru microtubing and the small cath and the change was pretty miniscule. But we are giving a much smaller amount than you all do, but it is the same blood as adults get, just reduced down to packed cells.

In our adult ICU's they hang blood on pumps as do the floors, including peds.

Here at our facility it is the same..remember...if the patient needs blood, it's always best to infuse through a larger catheter..but if all you can get is a 22 or 24 gauge catheter in there, that'll have to do.

vamedic4 :)

finding something to smile about

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Specializes in ER, Research.

Now I'm worried, b/c begalli said you can give a patient cardiac/renal failure. What are the odds this will happen from maybe 30 minutes of blood going through a 22?

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Specializes in Peds Cardiology,Peds Neuro,Pedi ER,PICU, IV Jedi.
Now I'm worried, b/c begalli said you can give a patient cardiac/renal failure. What are the odds this will happen from maybe 30 minutes of blood going through a 22?

I believe begalli was referring to blood hung on a pump not designed for blood, where it lyses the cells...making them ineffective.

There's nothing wrong with 30 minutes of blood going thru a 22 gauge catheter..assuming you're still in the vein!!

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Specializes in ER, Research.

You're right, let me review those posts. Phew! I know they do it all the time in infusion (22g), and I read on a web site in can be 14-23g for blood. I'm just extrememly particular and want to do right by the patient. But, peace of mind from other nurses is always welcome. :wink2:

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