While âBRBâ is most widely used in the context of real-time chat, the term has been also discussed on Usenet, including a post on the alt.usage.english newsgroup on January 13th, 1994.
Blood transfusions are done to replace blood lost during surgery or due to a serious injury. A transfusion also may be done if your body can't make blood properly because of an illness. During a blood transfusion, a small needle is used to insert an IV line into one of your blood vessels. Through this line, you receive healthy blood. The procedure usually takes 1 to 4 hours, depending on how much blood you need. Blood transfusions are very common. Each year, almost 5 million Americans need a blood transfusion.
The type of blood used in the transfusion has to be compatible with your blood type. Otherwise, antibodies (a type of protein) in your blood might attack the transfused blood and make you sick. More on Transfusions. Transfusions usually happen in a hospital. Sometimes transfusions are done in doctorsâ offices, outpatient clinics, or even the patientâs home. Red blood cell transfusions can take up to four hours. Transfusions of other blood components, such as platelets and plasma, may take less time. After the transfusion, you might feel some soreness or have some bruising in the area where the IV line was inserted.