Background
Quality indicators in Transfusion Medicine are critically important aspects that can be measured and utilized to design interventions for continuous quality improvement. Interventions for improvement in bedside transfusion practices are required to check the adherence to standard protocol for safe transfusion.
Study design and methods
A prospective study was conducted with a structured checklist survey of 4 key elements, to collect data for baseline assessment phase I survey, subsequently phase II survey repeated after introduction of Transfusion Monitoring Form and Telephonic reminders from blood bank. Pre‐ and Post‐intervention data collected, tabulated and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23).
Results
Identification of Patient, Transfusion initiation within 30 min of issue, Vitals monitoring during transfusion and completion of transfusion within time limit are the four key elements of quality indicators were checked pre‐ and post‐intervention. Mean composite score of quality indicators before intervention was 2·3 ± 1·3 and increased to 3·2 ± 1·3 (P value < 0·001) after implementation of the Transfusion Monitoring form and Reminder calls from Blood Bank.
Conclusion
Manufacturing good quality blood components alone does not ensure good transfusion services. Active interventions by Transfusion specialist ensure good bedside transfusion practices. Introduction of blood transfusion monitoring form and Telephonic reminders from the blood centre brought in significant changes in the existing bedside transfusion practices and safer transfusion at our centre.