Comprehensive survey of red blood cell unit life cycle at a large teaching institution in eastern Canada.

Background: Recent blood shortages and the potential clinical impact of red blood cell (RBC) age highlight the need to understand blood supply delivery. This study addresses the characteristics and mechanics of RBC unit trafficking and storage across the transfusion service, previously undescribed in the literature.

Study Design And Methods: This retrospective qualitative institutionwide survey assessed the comprehensive RBC life cycle within Capital District Health Authority in Nova Scotia, Canada, during 2007.