An Audit of the Pattern of Blood Transfusion at a Tertiary Care Centre

Background and objectives: Due to increased requirement of blood, it is necessary to formulate action plans for its prudent use. This study had been conducted to evaluate ongoing transfusion services at a tertiary care centre. Method: This had been a prospective study of 7 months duration (June 2013 - December 2013). The data obtained, regarding the utilization of 10,203 units of blood component during that period, was compiled and analyzed further. Results: Total 10,203 units were cross matched and 9431 units were issued. The overall C/T ratio (Units crossmatched/ Units transfused) was 1.08:1. The transfusion probability & transfusion index obtained were 67.44 % and 1.17 respectively. Of 7328 units demand for whole blood and red cell concentrate, red cell concentrate demand was 43% (n= 3154) and whole blood demand was 57% (n= 4174). The maximum demand was received from Obstetrics & Gynaecology department (n= 1450) followed by Paediatrics (n=1434). Maximum utilization of blood units was noticed in Trauma unit (C/T ratio= 1.00:1) and minimum was observed in department of Surgery (C/T ratio= 1.20:1). Of 2875 units demand for fresh frozen plasma (FFP) & platelets, FFP demand was 42% (n= 1206) and platelet demand was 58% (n= 1669). 1206 units demand for FFP resulted in transfusion in 1084 patients (average 1.11 units/patient) with maximum demand from department of Surgery (36.3%) followed by Pediatrics (22.4%) and the commonest indication being burns followed by full term acute fetal distress (FTAFD)/ sepsis. Conclusion: This study highlights that every health care institute must develop distinct transfusion guidelines based on the nature of routine & emergency services and implement them through the institutional transfusion committee to assure effective blood utilization.