Final answer:
Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) is a blood product containing plasma proteins, coagulation factors, and various dissolved components. It is primarily used to treat coagulation disorders, support massive transfusion protocols, and reverse anticoagulation, among other medical indications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) contains a variety of components, prominently including plasma proteins, coagulation factors, and other dissolved substances such as glucose, amino acids, fatty acids, urea, cholesterol, phosphates, potassium (K), sodium (Na), chloride (Cl), and iron (Fe). These are suspended in a fluid that is approximately 90% water. FFP is used for its content of essential clotting factors, which is crucial in the management of disorders where these factors are deficient or in the treatment of significant bleeding. It also carries antibodies, nutrients, and hormones through the body. When patients require plasma transfusions, FFP serves as a support to maintain proper coagulation and volume homeostasis.
Uses of Fresh Frozen Plasma
Typically, FFP is indicated for the treatment of conditions such as coagulation factor deficiencies, massive transfusion protocols, reversal of anticoagulation, and plasma exchange in thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). It is a critical component of care in a variety of medical and surgical situations where patients' blood coagulation status needs to be supported or normalized. FFP must be matched to the recipient's blood group to avoid transfusion reactions and ensure compatibility.