Blood Transfusion Requirements in The Intensive Care Unit at Analankininina University Hospital, Toamasina, Madagascar

Introduction: Blood transfusion is a common and essential therapeutic intervention in intensive care units (ICUs), particularly for managing anemia and hemorrhagic conditions. This study aimed to evaluate transfusion practices, requirements, and outcomes in the ICU of Analankininina University Hospital, Toamasina, Madagascar. Methods; A monocentric descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted over a 12-month period. All patients who received at least one blood transfusion during their ICU stay were included. Data were collected from medical records and analyzed using standard statistical methods. Results: Among 562 ICU admissions, 11.6% (n=65) of patients received transfusions. The mean age was 40 ± 16.9 years, with a female predominance (sex ratio M: F = 2: 3). Hemorrhagic syndromes were the leading indication (41.5%). A total of 135 blood units were requested, of which 79.3% were available. The mean delay between prescription and transfusion was 1h53 ± 1h42. Adverse reactions occurred in 6.2% of patients. Conclusion: Blood transfusion needs in this setting were moderate but constrained by limited availability. Strengthening coordination with blood banks and promoting voluntary donation could improve transfusion efficiency and patient outcomes.