Please update your LIMS with platelet component barcodes
For our new reduced-dose apheresis 7-day shelf life, new neonatal 5-day shelf life and the existing 5-day shelf life platelets
New reduced-dose Apheresis platelets 7-day shelf life
We have developed this component in anticipation of the multiple episodes of future planned strike action that may impact on blood supply and will issue them as a temporary measure during a red alert platelet shortage period or when there is an imminent risk of a red alert within 7 days.
The platelet specification is ≥ 150 x 109/unit, which is comparable to a 2/3 dose.
Please refer to our 'Guidance notes for reduced-dose apheresis platelet components' published on the blood stocks page for details.
New neonatal platelets 5-day shelf life
We may issue this component:
- as a temporary measure in a red alert
- when there is an imminent risk of a red alert within 7 days
- in the event of any systems failures within Testing
(Please note both new barcodes are also published on the Component Portfolio and Prices page).
Existing platelets 5-day shelf life
We may issue this component:
- as a temporary measure in a red alert
- when there is an imminent risk of a red alert within 7 days
- in the event of any systems failures within Testing
- Existing platelets barcodes (PDF 140KB) (reference pages 83 to 86 inclusive in the Portfolio of blood components and guidance for their clinical use)
Dr Lise Estcourt
Consultant Haematologist
Associate Professor of Haematology and Transfusion Medicine, University of Oxford
Clinical Lead for the National Comparative Audit in Blood Transfusion
Director of NHSBT Clinical Trials Unit
Associate Medical Director (AMD) - Research, Development and Quality Improvement - Transfusion
NHS Blood and Transplant, Oxford
Currently we are able to fulfil all requests for platelet components and remain in pre-Amber
We have developed these new components in anticipation of any future shortages. We do not expect any change to pre-amber status in the short term.