Last Updated on December 16, 2024 by Analgesia team
PRC in Bloods in Medical Term
PRC stands for packed red cells, which are red blood cells separated from plasma and used in blood transfusions. It is also known as PRBC (packed red blood cells).
Packed red cells (PRC) |
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What they are |
Red blood cells that have been separated from plasma for transfusion
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When they are used |
They are used to treat patients with a variety of conditions, including:
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How are they given |
Injected intravenously
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How much do they increase hemoglobin |
One unit can increase hemoglobin levels by about 10 g/L (1 g/dL) in adults
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How long they are stored |
21–42 days, depending on the anticoagulant-preservative solution used
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Volume |
Usually 225–350 mL per unit
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PRC transfusions are often used when other treatments are not feasible or are inadequate. They can be beneficial for patients with chronic anemia from kidney failure or gastrointestinal bleeding, or acute blood loss from surgery or trauma.
Before the blood is given, cross-matching is usually required. Reactions may occur in 1–2% of patients.