N.B.T.S. 14 NATIONAL BLOOD TRANSFUSION SERVICE S T E R I L E G I V I N G A P P A R A T U S (One set) Must be washed and returned immediately after use, or, if not used within six months, must be returned for resterilisation. GLASS WITH CARE SOUTH LONDON BLOOD TRANSFUSION CENTERS ARE FRAGILE - COSTLY - SCARCE
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PLEASE H A N D L E C A R E F U L L Y to KEEP THIS SET IN USE
C53/415/60m/9/55
Production date
1952-1962
Production organisations
NATIONAL BLOOD TRANSFUSION SERVICE, SOUTH LONDON BLOOD TRANSFUSION CENTERS
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This Keynes blood transfusion apparatus was produced by the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) in the 1950s for use by South London blood transfusion centres. Originally used during the First World War, the apparatus was designed to collect blood safely and efficiently in glass bottles, from which it could be administered to the wounded. The set is made up of rubber tubing, a glass chamber and a filter, which were connected to the blood bottle before being attached to the donor. As blood passed through the apparatus, the filter removed any clots or debris before transfusion.
By the 1950s, blood transfusion had become an established form of treatment rather than just an emergency wartime procedure. The NBTS had effectively developed a positive blood banking system, where blood was collected nationwide, stored and distributed, ensuring that blood could be administered safely across hospitals throughout Britain. The apparatus therefore reflects the transition from the changing state of transfusion services during the Second World War to a more permanent infrastructure of blood transfusion within the National Health Service.
