How long can Fresh Frozen Plasma be stored at -18 ˚C or below?

Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) is a blood product made from the liquid portion of whole blood. It is crucial for patients who require clotting factors or volume replacement. The storage of FFP is strictly regulated to ensure its efficacy and safety.

When FFP is stored at -18 ˚C or below, it retains its properties and can be stored for up to 12 months. This time frame allows for maintaining the functional integrity of clotting factors and other proteins present in the plasma. After this period, the quality of the plasma may diminish, leading to decreased effectiveness in clinical settings.

Understanding the storage guidelines for FFP is vital for blood bank technologists, as it impacts patient care and determines the shelf life of the product for transfusion. Thus, the correct answer indicates the maximum recommended storage duration to ensure the plasma remains safe and effective for use.