When to transfuse?

January 8

by Jonathan Downham

When to transfuse?

The Gist: "Permissive _____" is becoming increasing popular in medicine-blood glucose, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation. Hemoglobin is similar, but common refrains may be heard "well, he looks puny, let's give him a couple of units." Currently, the best evidence suggests that transfusion of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) should be considered in most critically ill medical patients, in the absence of massive hemorrhage, at a hemoglobin (hb) <7 g/dLlink here

Hypophosphatemia in Critical Care

Summary:In this episode, we spotlight a stealthy ICU disruptor — hypophosphataemia. Based on a 2024 narrative review in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, we explore why phosphate matters, how it goes missing in critically ill patients, and why you should care even when it’s just “a little low.”What’s Covered:The vital role of phosphate in energy,

DKA in Critical Care

Mobilisation in Critical Care- Barriers and Culture

Mobilisation in the ICU raises two big questions: is it safe, and will staff embrace it?In this discussion, Jonathan explores both sides of the story:Safety first:Large prevalence studies show mobilisation is happening, though often inconsistently.A systematic review of 1,800+ sessions found serious adverse events in only 0.6% — most minor and short-lived.Even patients on CRRT can safely mobilise

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When to transfuse?