Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP): Component Characteristics, Storage, and Thawing Requirements

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The page below is a sample from the LabCE course Adverse Effects of Fresh Frozen Plasma Transfusion: TRALI, TACO and Allergic Reactions. Access the complete course and earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.-approved continuing education credits by subscribing online.

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Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP): Component Characteristics, Storage, and Thawing Requirements

FFP is prepared from whole blood or apheresis donations and frozen at – 18° C or below within 8 hours of collection. The volume of the unit is typically 200 – 250 mL. When stored at -18° C or below, FFP outdates in 12 months (six-year storage at –65° C is allowable but requires FDA approval). When proper storage conditions are maintained, there is minimal loss of coagulation factor activity, including labile factors V and VIII. One mL of FFP contains approximately 1 unit of factor activity.
Prior to administration, FFP is thawed at 30 - 37° C in an FDA-cleared thawing device. If thawed in a water bath, a protective wrap is used to prevent contamination of the ports on the unit. Thawed FFP is stored at 1-6° C and must be infused within 24 hours of thawing. After 24 hours, the component must be discarded, or if collected in a functionally closed system may be relabeled as Thawed Plasma.
Blood ComponentStorage Temp.Volume Expires
FFP -18ºC or below 200-250 mL 12 months
Thawed FFP 1-6ºC 200-250 mL 24 hours