If the seal is entered on a unit of Red Blood Cells stored at 1 C to 6 C, what is the maximum allowable storage period, in hours?

The maximum allowable storage period for a unit of red blood cells after the seal has been broken is 24 hours when stored at 1°C to 6°C. This storage duration is based on the guidelines established by regulating bodies which aim to ensure the safety and efficacy of blood components.

Once the seal is broken, the unit is exposed to room temperature and can begin to be contaminated by bacteria or other pathogens. Thus, the 24-hour limit helps to minimize the risk of bacterial growth and ensures that the blood cells remain viable for transfusion.

While other timeframes, such as 6, 48, or 72 hours, may seem practical in different contexts or may be allowable for other blood products, they do not apply to red blood cells after the seal has been breached. Maintaining strict adherence to the 24-hour guideline is critical for patient safety and the effectiveness of the transfusion process.