What are the two contributions of Charles Drew in field medicine?

1. Developed the first large-scale blood bank and plasma fractionation facility.

During World War II, Drew was tasked with establishing the blood bank system for the U.S. military. He developed a method for collecting and processing blood plasma into a stable, usable form that could be stored and transported. His groundbreaking work allowed the military to provide essential blood transfusions to wounded soldiers on the front lines.

2. Developed the concept of "stored blood" and the use of plasma as a blood substitute.

Drew conducted extensive research into the properties of blood and plasma and made several critical discoveries that greatly improved the effectiveness of blood transfusions. He found that plasma, the liquid component of blood, could be separated from red blood cells and stored for extended periods without losing its ability to clot blood. This allowed doctors to give transfusions of plasma instead of whole blood, reducing the risk of side effects and rejection.

Drew's contributions to field medicine during World War II saved countless lives and transformed the practice of blood transfusions. His legacy continues through his pioneering research and the development of blood banks and plasma fractionation methods that are still used today.