How long can whole blood collected in the anticoagulant CPD be stored for use?

Whole blood collected in the anticoagulant CPD, which stands for Citrate Phosphate Dextrose, can be stored for up to 21 days. This time frame allows for the effective preservation of red blood cells and other components of the blood while maintaining their viability for transfusion. During this storage period, the anticoagulant works to prevent clotting, enabling clinicians to use the blood when needed for patients in various medical scenarios.

The storage limit of 21 days is based on maintaining the optimal condition for the blood components. After this period, the efficacy and safety of the blood may decline, which is why it is crucial to adhere to these guidelines to ensure quality patient care.