[Sally C]

Hi Deeno,
Regarding pre-meds before tranfusions - Don initially received Benadryl and Tylenol by mouth in the infusion center 30 minutes before the transfusion started. As time went on and he started having reactions they added Solumedrol (a steroid) along with Benadryl in his port and Tylenol by mouth. Our hospital takes reactions very seriously as it could lead to anaphylactic shock although he never went that far. They also infused platelets very slowly (by gravity as opposed to pump) in an effort to keep him from having any reactions. As far as getting typed and crossed before red cell transfusions - Don received about 130 transfusions (reds and platelets). They typed and crossed before every red cell tranfusion. I guess it's an extra safety measure.
Good luck!
Sally