Skip to main content

SOP

Blood Component Storage and Handling

SOP for proper temperature control, storage, and handling of blood components.

Last verified 1 month ago 1 min read Blood Bank / Transfusion Medicine Laboratory Quality Assurance #blood bank #blood storage #component therapy #temperature monitoring
Link copied!
Document Control
Version
1.0
Effective
Aug 28, 2026
Reviewed
Aug 29, 2026
Department
Blood Bank / Transfusion Medicine
Principle

Specific temperatures prevent bacterial growth (RBCs), maintain platelet metabolism and prevent clumping (platelets), and preserve coagulation factor activity (FFP/Cryo).

Standard Operating Procedure: Blood Component Storage

1. Purpose: Maintain viability and safety of blood components.

2. Requirements:

  • Whole Blood / RBCs: 1°C to 6°C. Do not freeze. Shelf life: 35-42 days (depending on additive solution).
  • Platelets: 20°C to 24°C with continuous gentle agitation. Shelf life: 5-7 days.
  • Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP): ≤ -18°C (preferably -30°C). Shelf life: 1 year.
  • Cryoprecipitate: ≤ -18°C. Shelf life: 1 year.

3. Procedure:

  • Monitor and document temperatures continuously (min. twice daily) with calibrated alarms.
  • Store components in dedicated, validated blood bank refrigerators/freezers (no food or lab reagents).
  • Ensure adequate air circulation; do not overcrowd.

4. QC: Calibrate temperature monitoring devices every 6 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

It must be quarantined immediately. Viability testing or discard protocols must be followed per blood bank policy.