An analytical study of discarded units of whole blood in blood bank of KIMS Hubballi, a tertiary care hospital of North Karnataka

Abstract

Objective: Blood is a vital fluid for the body which should be properly stored and utilized so that it can be used in emergencies. This study has been done to determine the number of units of whole blood discarded in blood bank of Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences, Hubli, the various reasons of discards and the methods for reducing this wastage.

Methods: The study was conducted for the period of 9 years from January 2007 to December 2015 wherein the number of collected blood units, blood units discarded and reasons for discard of these blood units in this period, was analysed. Discarded blood unit with respect to the blood group was also studied for last six years i.e. from January 2010 to December 2015.

Results: The total blood storage units for the period of 9 years were 80,312 units, of which, 4,685 bags were discarded. There were various reasons found behind this wastage. The main reason being the transfusion transmitted infections which accounted for 2113 units (45.10%). Other reasons being suboptimal collection of blood bags (8.13%), damaged bags (1.66%), expired bags (37.78%).

Conclusion: Blood transfusion is an essential part of patient care. It is important to implement proper blood transfusion management policies which will help utilize the blood and it’s components in a more efficient manner with minimal wastage