5. Managing transfusion locally

Key points

Managing transfusion reactions
• Discuss local protocol for managing a transfusion reaction 
• Use of reaction flowchart (if used)
• Use of transfusion reaction management e-learning resources

Rationale

All staff managing patients having a blood transfusion require education in recognising and managing transfusion reactions

Links to resources (where available)

ISBT Transfusion Reactions E-learning Module | The International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT) (isbtweb.org)

BSH investigation & management of acute transfusion reactions | British Journal of Haematology | Wiley Online Library 

Classification and incidence of adverse events | Lifeblood 

Key points

Transfusion governance
• Transfusion standards & guidelines in use within the institution/jurisdiction 
• Transfusion committee/Blood management committee with responsibility for overseeing transfusion service
• Reporting of adverse reactions and adverse events
• Key transfusion personnel – lead Clinician, lead Transfusion Scientist, Transfusion Practitioner

Rationale

For the learner to get an overview of how transfusion is managed within the organisation

Links to resources (where available)

Haemovigilance Tools and resources | The International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT) (isbtweb.org)

Key points

Patient blood management

• Evidence-based, multidisciplinary approach to caring for patients who might need a blood transfusion
• Encompasses all aspects of the transfusion decision-making process, beginning with the initial patient evaluation and continuing through clinical management. 
• Aim is for optimal patient outcomes, while maintaining the blood supply to guarantee that blood components are available for patients when they are needed.

Rationale

For the learner to better understand both the decision to transfuse and the alternatives (where available locally).

Links to resources (where available)

The urgent need to implement patient blood management: policy brief (who.int)

Patient Blood Management (aabb.org)

BloodSafe eLearning Australia (bloodsafelearning.org.au)

Patient Blood Management Guidelines | National Blood Authority

Patient Blood Management Resources | The International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT) (isbtweb.org)