Adverse Blood Transfusion Reaction in Tertiary Care Hospitals an Initiative Towards Improvement: A Multi Center Study

Abstract

Introduction: Blood and blood components transfusion is a life-saving procedure, but it carries the risk of adverse outcomes. Hemo-vigilance is a surveillance system that includes reporting and analysis of adverse events related to blood transfusion and taking steps to prevent their occurrence or recurrence

Aims & Objectives: This study is to determine the incidence and type of adverse transfusion reactions and type of blood products associated, in patients had undergone blood transfusion.

Place and duration of study: A retrospective descriptive cross-sectional study Blood bank, Pathology department, University College of Medicine / University of Lahore Teaching Hospital, Lahore and Blood bank, Mansoorah Teaching Hospital, Lahore. The study was conducted over a period of 04 years (1^st January 2018 to 31^st December 2021).

Material & Methods: All the adverse blood transfusion reactions reported to Blood Bank during the 4 years were

analyzed according to institution's protocol.

Results: Out of 9597 units transfused, 72 (0.75%) adverse transfusion reactions were reported. Febrile non hemolytic transfusion reactions (0.36%) were the most frequent type of reaction followed by Allergic reactions (0.33%). ATRs were mostly associated with whole blood followed by Pack Cell Volume (PCVs).

Conclusion: For an accurate estimation of ATR incidence, proper transfusion monitoring and reporting of all such responses will be required. To enhance the quality, safety, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness of blood and its components and as well as the donation process, an effective hemo-vigilance system must be established