What services do blood banks in Pakistan usually provide?
Depending on size and level, a blood bank may:
· Collect whole blood from donors.
· Prepare and issue packed red blood cells, platelet concentrates, fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and sometimes cryoprecipitate.
· Perform cross‑matching, antibody screening and other pre‑transfusion tests.
· Support emergency transfusions (e.g., trauma, childbirth complications, surgical bleeds).
· Provide regular transfusion support for thalassemia, cancer, and other chronic conditions.
· Some advanced centers also offer apheresis services (single‑donor platelets, plasmapheresis, etc.).
Most larger public and private teaching hospitals in major cities have blood banks that operate 24/7 for their in‑house patients.