Albumin transfusion into a patient's bloodstream using intravenous (IV) drips. The albumin (yellow fluid, upper right) is the major protein in blood plasma (the liquid part of the blood). It plays a vital role, as a colloid protein, in maintaining colloid osmotic pressure across body systems. It also provides drug binding sites, and may help in blood clotting. It is used to treat patients who have suffered major loss of blood, who have severe burns, or who are in clinical shock. It is also used to treat disorders where its production or distribution is affected. It is obtained from the plasma component of donor blood.