Management of Blood Resources in Patients in General Intensive Care Units
By
Patrick Meybohm
David M. Baron
Dietmar Fries
Sigismond Lasocki
Alexander P. J. Vlaar
Kai Zacharowski
Suma Choorapoikayil
June 8, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Management of Blood Resources in Patients in General Intensive Care Units
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Anemia in Intensive Care Patients Key Mechanisms Multifactorial etiology including hemolysis, frequent phlebotomy, bleeding, reduced erythropoiesis, and iron deficiency. Target Population Critically ill patients in intensive care units. Care Setting General Intensive Care Units (ICUs)
Key Highlights
Anemia is common in ICU patients and linked to worse outcomes. Patient Blood Management (PBM) strategies can optimize blood health. IV iron supplementation can moderately increase hemoglobin levels. PBM implementation is associated with reduced transfusion rates and hospital stays. Hemostatic abnormalities are prevalent and require careful management. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Systematic assessment to identify reversible causes of anemia. Management
Implement comprehensive anemia management and evidence-based transfusion strategies. Monitoring & Follow-up
Monitor hemoglobin levels and transfusion requirements. Risks
Adverse events associated with blood products include allergic reactions and transfusion-related acute lung injury. Patient & Prescribing Data
Critically ill patients requiring intensive care.
IV iron administration can lead to a moderate increase in hemoglobin concentrations and reduce transfusion needs.
Clinical Best Practices
Utilize a multimodal PBM approach tailored to institutional needs. Focus on minimizing surgical and procedural blood losses. Consider the use of IV iron for managing anemia in ICU patients. Related Resources & Content
