Timely and appropriate intervention are key to prevent progression to haemorrhagic shock, Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and death.
Visual EBL is often underestimated.
Quantitative blood loss measurement is more accurate. This may be by gravimetric or photometric means.
OBSCymru advocate that measured blood loss (MBL) is calculated using the gravimetric approach - this involves knowing the dry weight of all blood loss collection devices (collection drapes, incontinence pads, sanitary pads, swabs) and measuring their wet weight during haemorrhage, using the difference in weight to calculate blood volume loss. This volume can be added to any volume in suction/ cell salvage if in the operating theatre.
