Bloodless medicine and surgery in the OR and beyond.

Ideas about bloodless surgery are changing. It now is more than transfusion-free surgery for Jehovah's Witnesses. Technological advances and concerns about the safety and availability of blood have led to interest in bloodless surgery among non-Witnesses. Perioperative nurses need to be aware of bloodless surgery technology, which typically incorporates the use of recombinant human erythropoietin and special surgical techniques and equipment. They must have a proper attitude toward blood conservation and respect patient autonomy. Bloodless surgery care extends across specialties and inpatient areas. A knowledge of bloodless surgery will facilitate clear communication between staff members, patients, and patients' family members.