Blood Shipping Boxes Evaluated under Varying Modes of Heat Exposure

摘要

Containers used for shipping blood were evaluated while exposed to different environmental temperatures. A cardboard container, presently in use in military blood programs, was tested initially as a control. Various sizes of inserts made from insulating material were used. Differences in the ability of the boxes to maintain bank blood at temperatures of 10C were related primarily to the presence of insulation. Variations were also related to the volume of the insulated insert. Another critical finding was that the mode of heat employed had an effect on the duration of the internal cold temperature. Radiant heat exposure resulted in a more rapid temperature rise inside the container than the other forms of heating. Reduction of the radiant heat effect could be achieved by using covers of aluminum foil or insulating material. Present military overseas shipments need protection against exposure to direct tropical sun and the increased radiant heat effect. Either the above protective material or the simple expedient of moving the shipments into the shade would assist in maintaining the blood at cooler temperatures for a longer period. (Author)