[Blood transfusion practice].

The publication of the Circular DGS/DHO/Afssaps N(o) 2003-582 of the December 15 2003 relating to the administration of blood and blood components, means that an update of statutory requirements is needed. This article presents the overall process from the writing of prescriptions to the care and monitoring of the transfused patient. An update and a critical analysis of regulations currently in force are presented for each step as well as a description of the main adverse events.