A retrospective clinical audit of blood transfusion requests in tertiary care hospital

Abstract

Introduction: The inappropriate use of medical technology is a major factor in increased health care expenses and inappropriate use of blood is costly. There is a need for continuous audit of the use of products as therapy. Audits are useful tools in the education of those ordering blood components, potentially resulting in the reduction of inappropriate use of blood components. Aim: A retrospective clinical audit of blood transfusion requests in patients at a tertiary care hospital. Material and Methods: This retrospective clinical audit conducted at NKP salve institute of medical sciences and research center and lata mangeshkar hospital Nagpur for a period of 3 months from April 2013 to June 2013. A retrospective analysis of blood and its component requisitions in all patients from different clinical departments was reviewed regarding diagnosis, indication for transfusion, number of units requested and the speciality prescribing it. Reports of silent investigations like hemoglobin, platelet count, coagulogram was also recorded. Results: Out of 869 requisitions, 301 were for male patients and 568 were for female patients. Total number of blood components distribution request was 1188. 632 were for whole blood, 364 were for packed red cells, 182 were for FFP and 10 for platelet concentrate. Pre transfusion Hemoglobin was >8 gm/dl in 273 requests. Pre transfusion hemoglobin values were not available for 192. The urgency for transfusion was mentioned on 728, indication was mentioned on 804 and diagnosis was mentioned on 755 requisition forms. Multiple blood components requests were 97. The maximum request was from Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Total blood components issues were 707. Out of which 329 whole blood, 194 packed red cells, 182 FFPs and platelet concentrate were 2. Total donors were 554. Conclusion: Clinical audits helps to reduce inappropriate use of blood and blood components, avoids blood transfusion reaction and avail the deprived patients.