AN AUDIT OF THE BLOOD AND COMPONENT TRANSFUSION REQUESTS AND UTILIZATION PATTERN IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL – CURRENT TRENDS

Abstract

Blood transfusion is an important part of patient management. Transfusion audits are useful tools in the education of those ordering blood components, potentially resulting in the reduction of inappropriate use of blood components. In a retrospective pilot study, details of whole blood and components transfused were noted and correlated with the patient’s diagnosis and indications for transfusion, during 5 months. The total blood units supplied were 953. The male to female ratio was 2.2:1. Packed red blood cells were the most utilized product; followed by whole blood. Supply of blood was maximum to the surgical wards. The patients of elective surgery followed by trauma required blood mostly. The most common indication for whole blood, packed red cells, fresh frozen plasma and platelets were elective surgical procedures, anemia, bleeding and thrombocytopenia respectively.