Russia to overhaul blood transfusion preparation rules in 2027

Russia will introduce new rules for patient examination and preparation for blood transfusions starting January 1, 2027, according to a Health Ministry document reviewed by RIA Novosti. Before transfusion, a recipient's AB0 blood group and Rh status will be determined, followed by a confirmatory test. If results differ, a new blood sample must be sent for repeat testing. Samples for compatibility checks must be taken no earlier than 48 hours before transfusion, with tubes labeled with date, time, patient data, and blood type. Patients under 30 kilograms will have samples limited to three milliliters, and transport requires special temperature-controlled containers. The biological test procedure before transfusion will also change, adding hypotension to the list of symptoms requiring immediate stoppage, alongside chills, back pain, fever, chest tightness, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Separately, donor eligibility rules will change in 2027, including expanded electronic documentation, revised temporary contraindications, and removal of the annual donation limit.