Impact of Pre-Hospital Blood Product Administration on Trauma Patients in Shock

Authors

• Vianca C. Hall, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Emergency Medicine, Trauma Services, Pre-Hospital Medicine

Advisor

Tom Colletti

Abstract

This review examines the impact of administering blood products to trauma patients experiencing hypovolemic shock in the prehospital setting—a critical focus given that hemorrhage accounts for up to 40% of trauma-related deaths, as many patients succumb to their injuries before reaching definitive care. As emergency medical service (EMS) agencies increasingly integrate blood products into field protocols, early transfusion has emerged as a promising intervention capable of providing definitive resuscitation earlier than crystalloid fluids alone. Current evidence shows that prehospital blood administration improves hemodynamic stability, decreases morbidity and mortality, and avoids the dilutional coagulopathy associated with excessive crystalloid use. Challenges remain, including limited supply, storage requirements, training demands, and variation across EMS systems, however, the literature supports continued expansion of prehospital transfusion programs. Ongoing research is needed to refine optimal use, evaluate risks, and determine how early transfusion fits within broader trauma system practices. Overall, early access to blood products has the potential to significantly improve survival for trauma patients.

Recommended Citation

Hall VC. Impact of Pre-Hospital Blood Product Administration on Trauma Patients in Shock. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2026; 8(1).