Table 2 summarizes the most frequently used blood components and provides information
on their indications and precautions. Tables 3, 4, and 5 list indications for administration of
red blood cells (RBCs), plasma [fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and 24-hour plasma] and
platelets, respectively, and also note some situations when blood components are not or are
rarely indicated. Generally accepted indications for transfusion of red cells in various clinical
settings have been the subject of several publications. For additional information, see the