564 The Assessment and Management of Anaemia in Patients Who Underwent an Emergency Laparotomy

Aim Emergency Laparotomies (EmLap) carry a significant risk of morbidity and mortality. Peri and post-operative anaemia are associated with higher complication rates, delayed healing, and lethargy. This study aimed to assess the occurrence of anaemia in EmLap patients upon admission and discharge, as well as to evaluate its management. Method Data was collected from 260 participants undergoing EmLap from 2016 to 2019 that completed a follow up questionnaire in 2020, as part of PEEL 2 (Patients Experience of Emergency Laparotomy) in Cardiff, a retrospective cohort study. 34% of patients (n=90) had a Haemoglobin (Hb) level on admission and discharge and were included into the study. Information on transfusions and prescriptions of ferrous fumarate tablets during admission and on discharge were obtained from electronic records. Results 46.7% (n=42) were anaemic at time of admission and further 19 patients were anaemic after surgery. 61 patients (68%) were discharged with anaemia post EmLap. Of the 61 patients discharged with anaemia only 10 (16%) were given treatment; 7 (11%) were offered a blood transfusion, 2 (3%) were prescribed ferrous fumarate tablets and 1 (1.6%) received a combination of both. Discharge summaries did not highlight the issue and follow up advice was not given to GPs. Conclusions 2/3 of EmLap patients were discharged with anaemia and was not addressed. A greater understanding is needed to appreciate the impact of anaemia on EmLap patients’ such as fatigue levels. It can be avoided if a closer look at patients’ blood results is conducted and treated aligning with the NICE guidelines.