Un-cross-matched blood for emergency transfusion. One year's experience in a civilian setting.

One year's experience (56 cases) in the use of un-cross-matched blood for emergency transfusion in a large civilian teaching hospital showed that 49 transfusions were given as un-cross-matched, group-specific (ABO and Rh) blood in emergencies. Seventy-seven percent (43) of blood requests were for patients with trauma, unexpected massive intraoperative hemorrhage, or ruptured aneurysm. The indications for emergency transfusion were questionable in ten cases. There were no adverse effects noted even though complete serologic testing had not been done. While the use of un-cross-matched blood is usually safe, the potential for serious reaction exists. Overuse should be discouraged.