Blood Transfusions in Children Why are blood transfusions
performed? There are several different components of the blood
that can be transfused. Red blood cells are the most common type
of transfusion. If your child's health care provider has decided
your child might need a transfusion of blood, or blood products,
he or she will explain the reasons for the transfusion. There
are several reasons why your child may require a blood
transfusion, including the following: A sudden loss of blood
because of trauma An anticipated or actual loss of blood during
surgery A low blood count before, during, or after surgery
Severe heart, lung, liver, or kidney disease Bone marrow failure
Moderate to severe anemia What is blood made of? Human blood is
made of a fluid called plasma that carries red and white blood
cells and platelets. Each part of blood has special functions
and can be separated from each other. The bone marrow is the
soft, spongy material in the center of the bones that produces
about 95 percent of the body'