Abstract

Dr. Basavanna P. L.*, Kadeejath Sayitha, Leenu Lakshmi and Vanitha A. S.

ABSTRACT

Background and Objectives: Blood transfusion plays an important role in improving the health and saves lives. However, it should be done in proper way as it can also cause adverse reactions ranging in severity from minor to life threatening events. Haemovigilance programme of India (HvPI) is very essential programme as it aims to ensure the transfusion safety by monitoring every step of transfusion process from donor to recipient. Such adverse reaction caused during transfusion are termed as Adverse transfusion reactions (ATRs). An identification of adverse transfusion reactions (ATRs) and it’s spontaneous reporting will help us to take appropriate steps to reduce their incidence and in its management which ultimately makes blood transfusion safer. This study is aimed to determine the frequency and type of ATRs in blood recipients. Materials And Methods: A retrospective review of all transfusion reactions reported to the Blood Bank at Mysore Medical College and Research Institute, KR Hospital, Mysore between 2018 and 2019 was done. All the transfusion reactions were evaluated by the blood transfusion officer and classified using standard definitions. Result: During the period of 2 years, 2018-2019, a total of 46 blood transfusion reactions were reported. Among the haemocomponent receptors who had a transfusion reactions, the majority of the patients were female (74%) than male (26%). Majority of the reactions were associated with packed red blood cells (93.5%). As for the reporting unit, higher number of notification came from from obstetrics and surgical wards (58.7%) followed by medicinal unit (26%). Most reported transfusion reaction were febrile non haemolytic transfusion (FNHTR) reaction followed by allergic reactions. Conclusion: This study allowed for a better assessment and understanding of transfusion reactions, which will help to improve the quality of blood transfusion and provide greater safety of patients undergoing transfusion. Rational use of blood, improving storage conditions, bedside monitoring of transfusion and documentation of adverse events will help in improving transfusion safety. This can be ensured by creating awareness among health professionals and also the patients. Patient’s should be educated about the adverse events which can occur during transfusion and also be encouraged to report such reactions if occurred. Awareness about haemovigilance programme can be generated through haemovigilance news letters, scientific publications, and by organising continuing medical education (CME).