Which blood component must be prepared within 8 hours after phlebotomy?

Fresh Frozen Plasma must be prepared within 8 hours after phlebotomy to ensure the preservation of clotting factors. The rapid preparation and freezing process is crucial for maintaining the functionality of these proteins, which can degrade over time if the plasma is left at room temperature or refrigerated.

The correct handling of fresh whole blood ensures that the plasma, along with its vital coagulation factors, remains stable and effective for transfusion. Delay in processing may lead to a diminished quality of the plasma, making it less useful for therapeutic purposes.

Other components do not have the same time limitations following phlebotomy. Red Blood Cells and Cryoprecipitated AHF can be processed beyond the 8-hour window, and Red Blood Cells that are frozen can also be prepared later, as they undergo different preservation methods that allow for a longer timeframe.