Proper storage of whole blood and blood components is essential.

• Red blood cells must be stored under refrigeration and can be kept for a maximum of 42 days or frozen for up to 10 years.
• Platelets can be stored at room temperature for a maximum of 5 days.
• Fresh frozen plasma can be kept frozen for up to 1 year.
• Cryoprecipitate AHF made from fresh frozen plasma can be stored frozen for up to 1 year.
• Granulocytes (white blood cells) must be transfused within 24 hours of donation.