In terms of storage, what must happen to Fresh Frozen Plasma after thawing within 24 hours?

After Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) is thawed, it is essential that it be infused within a specific timeframe, typically within 24 hours. This requirement is critically important because once FFP is thawed, it is no longer considered to be in a "fresh frozen" state, and its shelf life is significantly reduced. The components in FFP, including clotting factors, start to degrade and lose their effectiveness after thawing, making timely infusion necessary to ensure that the patient receives the full benefit of the therapeutic properties of the plasma.

Infusion within this timeframe helps in optimizing treatment outcomes, especially for patients requiring plasma for clotting factor replacement or surgery. Refreezing is not an option, as it can compromise the integrity and function of the components in the plasma. Similarly, while testing plasma is important, it does not pertain to the immediate actions required after thawing. Storage at room temperature is not advisable under guidelines for blood products, as it can lead to bacterial growth and further degradation of the plasma, risking patient safety. Thus, the requirement to infuse FFP within 24 hours is crucial for ensuring effective patient care.