Keywords

transfusion reactions, transfusion guidelines, patient safety

 

Authors

  1. Ding, Jennifer
  2. Krey, Rebecca
  3. Malone, Laura
  4. Merrill, VeRonika
  5. Krouss, Mona
  6. O'Brien, Jennifer
  7. Fontaine, Magali J.

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The transfusion of blood products is a widely used practice but comes with the risk of transfusion-associated adverse events and fatalities. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate if strict adherence to transfusion guidelines would lead to a decrease in the rate of transfusion reactions that occurred when blood products were given outside of established indications. Hospital-wide educational programs and dedicated electronic transfusion order sets were used to encourage adherence to guidelines. A secondary aim of this study was to evaluate if a decrease in the incidence of transfusion reactions also lead to a decrease in associated healthcare costs.