Blood transfusion
Understand what blood transfusion entails and the possible risks involved.
Last updated 13 March 2026
A blood transfusion can be life-saving, but is done only when necessary, after careful consideration. You can read more about Patient Blood Management [PDF, 3 MB] (opens in new tab) to help you in your discussion with your doctor. Clinical guidelines are in place, based on international practice, to help your doctor make an appropriate decision.
Prioritising blood to those who needs it most
We encourage donors to donate regularly, at least twice a year, to maintain a stable and adequate blood stock. This way, all patients who need blood would have access to it.
In the event of blood shortage, blood usage would be prioritised based on urgency and medical condition of the patients, as assessed by the clinicians. This is to ensure patients with the most critical needs receive timely access to blood.
During a blood transfusion
Blood is dripped directly into a vein in your hand or arm, through a needle. It takes an average of 2 to 4 hours to transfuse one bag of blood.
Most people will not feel any different while receiving a blood transfusion.
Occasionally someone might develop a slight fever, chills or a rash. Such symptoms are usually due to a mild immune reaction or allergy, which can easily be treated with medication, or by giving the blood more slowly.
Find out more about the blood transfusion process.
Risks in a transfusion
Overall, blood transfusions are very safe. However, as with all procedures, there is a small risk involved.
Alternatives to blood transfusion
A blood transfusion should only be given when there are no other alternatives. Your doctor can advise you if there are safer options.
Conditions and alternative treatments suggested
Condition | Alternative treatment |
|---|---|
Mild anaemia or mild to moderate amounts of blood loss | Lost fluid can be replaced with a salt solution, while the body regenerates new red blood cells to replace what is lost. Iron supplements may also be taken to aid recovery. |
Elective surgery | Autologous blood transfusion — donating your blood for your own use. Click HERE to know more about autologous donation. |
Fees
You do not need to pay for the blood used in a transfusion. Blood is donated, not sold, and donors do not receive any payment.
A blood processing fee, however, is charged for the collection, processing and testing of every unit of blood to ensure it is safe for transfusion.
Blood safety
Measures are in place to ensure that the blood supplied for transfusions is as safe as possible. All donated blood collected is processed and tested at HSA's laboratories before it is used.
Screening
All donors are carefully screened before their blood is drawn.
Processing
Every unit of donated blood is managed using stringent, internationally-recognised quality standards. Donated blood is processed into different components:
Red blood cells
Platelets
Fresh frozen plasma
Infectious diseases testing
All blood units are put through the most sensitive tests for infectious diseases:
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis C
HIV
Syphilis
Selected components may also be tested for malaria or bacterial contamination
Blood group testing
Blood types are confirmed to ensure compatibility.
Antibody screening
Antibody screening is also performed to prevent abnormal antibodies from causing adverse reactions during a transfusion.
Proper storage
Our blood products are stored under carefully monitored and controlled temperatures and conditions to maintain an optimal state for transfusion.