So you think you need . . . a blood transfusion - If you must have a blood transfusion

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* Discuss with your doctor whether he will accept a lower ‘transfusion trigger’ of haemoglobin in the blood

* Opt for the transfusion of a single unit of blood to meet the transfusion trigger if your haemoglobin is below the acceptable level

* Discuss blood-saving measures with your surgeon if you are undergoing elective surgery

* Stay awake and alert during the transfusion, if possible, so that you can report any symptoms of an adverse reaction as soon as possible

* Make sure you know your own blood group, and double-check your medical charts and the labels on any blood products to be administered