Turkish Neonatal Society guideline on the transfusion principles in newborns

Blood transfusion can be defined as a life-saving procedure in neonates, especially in premature and surgical infants. The indications, threshold hemoglobin, and platelet levels for red cell, platelet, and plasma transfusions in neonates vary among centers and the evidence-based data for possible adverse effects, preterm morbidities, mortality, and neuro-developmental problems associated with transfusions are not clear yet. Herein, we aim to present the transfusion guideline designed to be used in neonatal intensive care units in our country, summarizing clinical findings and threshold levels for red cell, platelet, and plasma transfusions in addition to important practical points of transfusions according to a literature review.