A blood bag usually holds between 350 and 450 ml of blood.
After the blood is collected in the bag, the unit should be stored in an upright position in baskets, alternatively lying flat on a shelf. It is also important to note that the bags should never be packed tightly nor should they be stored near the freezer compartment, or in the door of the refrigerator.
For how long can blood bags be stored?
If stored correctly
- red blood cells have a shelf life of up to 42 days
- platelets are stored at room temperature in agitators for up to five days
- plasma and cryo are frozen and stored in freezers for up to one year.