Red blood cells are suspended in a small amount of plasma and anticoagulant

/preservative solution (AS-1, AS-3, AS-5) with an approximate total volume of

350 mL. Each RBC unit should raise the average adult's hemoglobin 1 gm/dL.

Prestorage leukoreduced red cells are used. This component provides red

cells to carry oxygen to the tissues. RBCs must be started within 30 minutes after

pickup. Infusion must be completed within four hours after issue. If needed,

divided units are available to transfuse over a longer period of time.