Implementation of ISBT 128, a quality system, a standardized bar code labeling of blood products worldwide, electronic transfusion pathway: four years of experience in Norway.

Background: In today's world of multinational disaster relief programs, blood collected and processed in one country may be used in another. A great deal of important information is carried by a blood product label. Given the concerns about safety and traceability, it is important to use globally unique blood product coding and labeling system.