Life is in the Blood

Many healthcare facilities in low-income countries (LICs) lack on-site blood banks, creating unfamiliar barriers to U.S. healthcare workers on mission trips. Abdominal hysterectomies are frequently performed on surgical missions and may require transfusion. In this case study, a patient received warm fresh whole blood (WFWB) from student registered nurse anesthetists and a registered nurse, post-hysterectomy in Guatemala. This case highlights preparedness for critical needs, the value of WFWB, and the educational and personal values gained on international missions. Clinical implications of WFWB and cold-stored low titer O whole blood (LTOWB) administration are discussed, along with a call for increased blood donation.