US Medical Term · procedures
Blood Transfusion
Transfusión de sangre
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Blood Transfusion |
| Spanish (Español) | Transfusión de sangre |
| Chinese (中文) | 輸血 |
| Korean (한국어) | 수혈 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Truyền máu |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Blood transfusion |
| Portuguese (Português) | Transfusão de sangue |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | การให้เลือด |
| Japanese (日本語) | 輸血 |
What it means
A blood transfusion is a medical procedure in which donated blood or blood components such as red blood cells, platelets, or plasma are given through an intravenous (IV) line into a patient's vein. It is used to replace blood lost during surgery, injury, or childbirth; to treat anemia or bleeding disorders; or to provide platelets to patients with certain cancers or during chemotherapy. Before transfusion, the blood type is matched carefully to prevent reactions. The procedure usually takes one to four hours per unit. A nurse monitors the patient closely during the transfusion for signs of a reaction such as fever, chills, or rash. Most transfusions are safe and life-saving.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
My hemoglobin is very low after surgery and the doctor says I need a blood transfusion.
Mi hemoglobina está muy baja después de la cirugía y el médico dice que necesito una transfusión de sangre.
Is it safe to receive a blood transfusion and what are the possible reactions?
¿Es seguro recibir una transfusión de sangre y cuáles son las posibles reacciones?
Can I donate my own blood before surgery to use in a transfusion if needed?
¿Puedo donar mi propia sangre antes de la cirugía para usarla en una transfusión si es necesario?
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Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026