Whole blood product complements the Blood Service’s product range and prehospital patient care
Whole blood has been introduced into the Blood Service’s general product portfolio as of early 2026. In whole blood products, the donated blood is not separated into components. The product is intended for the treatment of severe bleeding in prehospital emergency care outside hospitals.
“Typically, donated blood is separated into three components: red blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Patients receive only the component they need. This is feasible in hospitals, where the different products are more readily available and their use is logistically simpler and justified,” explains Jouni Lauronen, Chief Physician at the Blood Service.
“The advantage of whole blood in prehospital emergency care is its ease of use – from a single donated unit, the patient simultaneously receives red blood cells, platelets, and plasma,” Lauronen says.
Positive experiences from the use of whole blood in prehospital care
Whole blood was used in patient care between 2023 and 2025 in three prehospital emergency care units outside hospitals. User experiences have been positive.
“The study has provided additional information about the product’s usability and safety, and based on this, we can offer whole blood as part of patient treatment in prehospital emergency care,” Lauronen states.
Whole blood donation differs slightly from standard blood donation
The donation process for whole blood differs somewhat from ordinary blood donation. For example, a dedicated bag set is used for whole blood. Donation is currently possible only at the Blood Service’s Sanomatalo site in Helsinki.
The delivery of the product is agreed separately between the Blood Service and hospitals.
Contact information:
Jouni Lauronen (jouni.lauronen@veripalvelu.fi)
