Transfusion
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The risks and benefits of red blood cell (RBC) transfusion in palliative care patients remain poorly understood. We reviewed the literature to summarize available information on RBC transfusion in this population. ⋯ In palliative care, RBC transfusion may provide symptom relief and improve subjective well-being, though the duration and magnitude of this effect, and transfusion-associated risks specific to this population remain unclear. Currently, no high quality evidence exists to support or guide the use of RBC transfusion in this population. Moreover, the clinical heterogeneity within the palliative population limits the interpretation of most studies.
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The risks and benefits of red blood cell (RBC) transfusion in palliative care patients remain poorly understood. We reviewed the literature to summarize available information on RBC transfusion in this population. ⋯ In palliative care, RBC transfusion may provide symptom relief and improve subjective well-being, though the duration and magnitude of this effect, and transfusion-associated risks specific to this population remain unclear. Currently, no high quality evidence exists to support or guide the use of RBC transfusion in this population. Moreover, the clinical heterogeneity within the palliative population limits the interpretation of most studies.