Whole blood is typically stored between which temperatures?

Whole blood is typically stored at temperatures between 2°C and 6°C to ensure the viability of the blood components and to prevent bacterial growth. Storing blood at this range is crucial as it preserves the functionality of red blood cells, platelets, and plasma proteins while maintaining their biological activity.

Insurance against the risk of hemolysis, deterioration of cellular elements, or the proliferation of pathogens is key, as temperatures below freezing (-18°C and -30°C) can lead to the formation of ice crystals that disrupt cell membranes. Similarly, temperatures that are too low such as -2°C to 0°C can also negatively impact the integrity of blood components. Therefore, the 2°C to 6°C range is the most appropriate for the short-term storage of whole blood to maintain its quality and safety for transfusions.