Prevention of transfusion reactions and in post transfusion reactions, promoting patient safety [3P’s]

Abstract

Background: Blood transfusion is a natural lifesaving medicine which has a significant role in treating the patients. However this can also be associated with transfusion reactions as well. Presenting from mild reaction to fatal consequences. In this view the appropriate usage of blood and blood components and careful monitoring for early diagnosis and management of transfusion reactions are essential for patient safety. Materials and Methods: Retrospective observational analysis done from January 2023 – August 2024 in Blood centre, Apollo hospitals, health city, Visakhapatnam. The leukodepleted blood components utilized to minimize transfusion reactions. Results: Total number of buffy coat removal blood and blood components issued is 8083 out of which 11 (0.13%) cases reported transfusion reaction.Combination of washed RBC and followed by leukodepleted filter transfused in these 11 patients and in 57cases for the clinically indicated patients. These patients had successful transfusion. On further evaluation of these patients ,adverse reaction rate was 0% .And proactively prevented adverse reaction in multiple transfusions of 910 cases by utilizing leucodepleted blood components. Conclusion: “PPPP” the blood components therapy ensures the right product is administered to the - right patient at the right time for the appropriate indication- which is crucial in preventing transfusion reactions and promoting patient safety. The use of Leucodepleted blood components helps in reducing the risk of blood transfusion reactions. When combined with washed packed red blood cells, it provides an additional layer of safety in preventing reactions in post transfusion reactions. The combination of washed RBC and leucodepleted filter has clinical benefit by preventing any obstacles for treating clinicians and surgeons allowing for improved patient care.

Keywords: Transfusion reactions, leukodepleted packed red cells, washed red blood cells.