These deficits have propelled national efforts to reduce blood usage, including limiting elective services and accelerating Patient Blood Management (PBM) initiatives. National PBM initiatives have been in place for years through the Society for the Advancement of Patient Blood Management and the American Society of Anesthesiologists and their respective guidelines.

 In 2021, a strong endorsement statement for following PBM guidelines was put forth by the American Society of Anesthesiologists PBM Committee in light of pandemic-driven blood deficits.

 A recent survey published by the Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists members in Anesthesia and Analgesia highlighted new widespread implementation of these recommendations.

 As high utilizers of blood products, cardiac anesthesiologists are at the forefront of blood conservation measures. There are many components to PBM, and updates on important topics within PBM are highlighted in this review. COVID-19–related updates also are highlighted.