文摘
The degree of increase in haematocrit and equilibration time following packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusion in neonates is not well studied. We evaluated change in haematocrit 15 min, 6 h and 24 h after PRBC transfusion in neonates and factors predicting this change. Among neonates receiving PRBC transfusion, we recorded pre-transfusion haematocrit and a priori identified putative variables affecting change in haematocrit following transfusion. The factors affecting change in haematocrit were analyzed by multiple linear regression analysis. Eighty-one neonates received 119 PRBC transfusions (mean volume 16 ± 4 mL/kg). Haematocrit increased from 26 ± 5 to 41 ± 5% at 15 min after PRBC transfusion (p = 0.001) and remained stable till 6 h (41 ± 5%, p = 0.11). It decreased to 40 ± 5%, at 24 h post transfusion (p < 0.001). On linear regression analysis, baseline haematocrit of the baby, donor blood haematocrit and volume of PRBC transfusion were independent determinants of increase in haematocrit.
