§ 82-612 — Processing

Sec. 82-612. - Processing.

(a) Separation. Red blood cells (human) may be prepared either by centrifugation done in a manner that will not tend to increase the temperature of the blood, and no later than 18 days after the date of blood collection or by normal, undisturbed sedimentation no later than 21 days after the date of blood collection. A portion of the plasma sufficient to assure optimal cell preservation shall be left with the red cells except when a cryophylactic substance is added for prolonged storage. (b) Sterile system. All surfaces that come in contact with the red cells shall be sterile and pyrogen-free. If an open system is used, that is, where the transfer container is not integrally attached to the blood container, and the blood container is entered after blood collection, the plasma shall be separated from the red blood cells with positive pressure maintained on the original container until completely sealed. If the method of separation involves a vented system, that is, when an airway must be inserted in the container for withdrawal of the plasma, the airway and vent shall be sterile and constructed so as to exclude microorganisms and maintain a sterile system. (c) Final containers. Final containers used for red blood cells (human) shall be the original blood containers unless the method of processing requires a different container. The final container shall meet the requirements for blood containers prescribed in section 82-579(c). At the time of filling, if a different container is used, it shall be marked or identified by number or other symbol so as to relate it to the donor of that unit of red cells.

(Code 1956, § 29-135)