This article is from the Journal for Healthcare Quality (JHQ). The full article is available to NAHQ members. Join NAHQ or log in to access.

Authors: Neville, Brett; Miltner, Rebecca S.; Shirey, Maria R.

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.