ABC Score for Massive Transfusion
Assessment of Blood Consumption (ABC) score predicts need for massive transfusion protocol (MTP) activation in trauma patients. Score ≥2 predicts MTP need.
Score interpretation
Massive transfusion protocol activation unlikely
→ Standard trauma resuscitation; reassess if deteriorates
High likelihood of requiring massive transfusion (≥10 units pRBC in 24h)
→ Activate Massive Transfusion Protocol; prepare blood products immediately
Interpretation bands for the ABC Score. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Nunez TC et al. Early prediction of massive transfusion in trauma: simple as ABC (assessment of blood consumption)? J Trauma. 2009;66(2):346–352.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Corrected Count Increment (CCI) for Platelet Transfusion · Transfusion Medicine
- Maximum Allowable Blood Loss · Transfusion Medicine
- Blood Volume Calculation (Nadler Formula) · Transfusion Medicine
- Sickle Cell Exchange Transfusion Volume · Transfusion Medicine
- Cryoprecipitate Dose Calculator for Fibrinogen Replacement · Transfusion Medicine
- Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) Dose Calculator · Transfusion Medicine
- Tranexamic Acid (Surgical / Trauma Haemorrhage) · Antifibrinolytic (Haemostatic)
- Tranexamic Acid (ICU/Trauma/Surgical) · Antifibrinolytic
- Alteplase (tPA) · Thrombolytic — Ischaemic Stroke / Massive PE
- Prednisolone (Oral — General Medicine) · Oral Corticosteroid
- Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) · Blood component
- Tenecteplase (TNK-tPA — STEMI/Massive PE) · Fibrin-Specific Thrombolytic (Third-Generation tPA)
- Major Haemorrhage / Massive Transfusion · BCSH; RCOA; RCEM; RCS — BCSH Guidelines
- Anaemia Investigation · BSH / NICE
- Splenomegaly Workup · BSH; BMJ Best Practice
- Deep Vein Thrombosis Diagnosis and Treatment · NICE CG144 / NICE NG158
- Sickle Cell Crisis · BSH 2021 / BCSH
- Neutropenic Sepsis · NICE CG151 2012 / ESMO
Featured in these MRCEM clinical pathways
The ABC Score is covered in detail — with RCEM/NICE evidence base, indications and pitfalls — in the following exam-focused pathways on our sister siteReviseMRCEM.
MRCEM Primary / Intermediate / OSCE candidates: each pathway includes exam-style questions, RCEM/NICE citations, and FAQ summaries.
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.
