Preventing transfusion associated hyperkalemia in pediatric cardiac
surgery : Measure The Levels of Potassium in Packed Red Blood Cells
Before Using – invited Commentary
Abstract
The authors present an revolutionary study aiming to evaluate the effect
of alterations in potassium concentrations in transfused packed red
blood cells (PRBC) on neonate and infant potassium levels after
congenital cardiac surgery. By establishing a strict protocol which
restricts the rate of transfusion, the age of the transfused PRBC, and
not transfusing a PRBC with a potassium level above 15 mmol/L, they
accomplished to suggest a safe and easy way for preventing transfusion
associated hyperkalemia.