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Abstract Aim To compare the practice of prescribing, administering, and monitoring transfusions, with the current local Trust guidelines in order to determine the proportion of inappropriate blood transfusions especially in times of regional and national shortage of blood products Method For a six-week period in 2022, numerous endpoints were measured, reflecting the specifications of the Trust guideline. Based on the results from this initial data, a teaching session was conducted to create awareness of the Trust guideline amongst all rotational doctors. A subsequent re-audit was conducted to determine the effectiveness of the intervention. Following data analysis, further suggestions were discussed and implemented. Results Prior to intervention, 34 units were transfused across 16 patients with the mean age being 81.88 years. Post-teaching session, 11 units were transfused with the mean age being 79.58 years. 26.4% units were transfused for active haemorrhage, none were due to major haemorrhage, compared to 18.2% for active haemorrhage post-teaching session. 73.5% transfusions were inappropriate, defined as transfusions conducted in those who did not meet the haemoglobin level (Hb) threshold stated in the guideline. This significantly reduced post-teaching session to 45.5%. Transfusion-associated circulatory overload assessment was completed in 58.8%, improving to 90.9% post-intervention. Conclusions Simple measures such as an induction booklet highlighting the Trust’s blood transfusion guideline ensured rotational doctors were aware of the local protocol, preventing a significant proportion of inappropriate red cell transfusions.
Qamar et al. (Mon,) studied this question.