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- Platelets are indicated in a variety of clinical scenarios.
- Generally, in the setting of bleeding secondary to thrombocytopenia, platelets should be transfused (this is unlikely in the patient with a platelet count >50).
- In addition, platelets should be transfused prophylactically in the patient whose platelet count is <10 and in whom the thrombocytopenia is expected to last a short period of time.
- Each unit of platelets contains a small volume of RBCs. As such, ABO/Rh compatible platelets are preferred; however, non ABO/Rh compatible platelets can be transfused if necessary.
- Note that Rh negative women of childbearing age should be given Rh immunoglobulin if receiving an Rh positive platelet transfusion to prevent hemolytic disease of the newborn in future pregnancies.
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