Fresh Frozen Plasma

• Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is processed from a single donor blood donation either prepared from a whole blood unit or from a plasmapheresis donor.
• It is prepared within 8 hours of collection.  This method ensures the preservation of labile coagulation factors.
• The plasma is stored at -30°C and thawed under controlled conditions at the Bloodbank.
• Neonatal packs take 15-20 minutes to thaw in the Bloodbank.

Parental Consent

• Informed consent required.
• Parent signs Agreement to Treatment form (CR0111).

Prescribing of Fresh Frozen Plasma

• Prescribed on the blood transfusion/IV fluid chart (CR5541).

Ordering

• On NZBS requisition form (111F01802).

Storage

• Shelf life once thawed is 4 hours, when stored in blood fridge.
• FFP pack will have a yellow expiratory sticker, stating ‘date’ and ‘time’ of expiry.
• When pack arrives in Newborn Services it must be used within 2 hours.
• Once plasma is partially transfused it should never be returned to the fridge for reuse at a later time because of the risk of contamination.
• For neonatal transfusions AB Plasma is used (compatible to all blood groups).

Checking, Administration, Monitoring, and Documentation

• As for blood and blood products.
• Checking
• Administration
• Monitoring
• Documentation

Adverse Reactions

• See Transfusion Reactions

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