Torunn Oveland Apelseth

Abstract According to the World Health Organization, antimicrobial resistance is one of the most serious threats to global health. Adverse reactions towards antibiotics are considered an indirect facilitator of resistance as it available treatment options, which thereby reduce therapeutic efficacy, and β-lactams are the most reported antibiotics to cause drug hypersensitivity events.

There is a need for practical guidance for blood providers on how to implement a whole blood programme. The review summarizes recommendations and practical implications identified from the published literature, regulatory requirements and current programmes. Whole blood programmes for the routine and emergency management of patients with severe bleeding can be implemented in a structured and sustainable way.

1 INTRODUCTION When preparing for emergencies like man-made or natural disasters, or possible armed conflicts, it is important to have versatile plans for blood preparedness.1 Even for events that can be forecasted with some notice (hurricanes, typhoons, tsunamis, etc.), an overview of the extent of the damage is unlikely to be complete, if available at all, despite the immediate need to begin drawing blood in preparation for incoming patients.