The 18-gauge needles used to collect donor blood for transfusion have a larger bore than do standard blood collection needles. What is the advantage of this needle?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The larger bore of the 18-gauge needle allows for a faster collection process, reducing the time that blood cells are outside of the body and ultimately reducing the risk of hemolysis (the destruction of red blood cells). This is especially important for transfusions, where the quality of the collected blood is critical for the success of the procedure. While minimizing donor discomfort and allowing for tube holder and vacutainer use are also important considerations, the primary advantage of the larger needle bore is its impact on the quality of the collected blood.

The 18-Gauge Needles Used to Collect Donor Blood for Transfusion