Blood stock in 2010 for Srinagarind hospital and Queensirikit Heart Center of the Northeast

Abstract

It is the responsibility of all blood transfusion laboratories to ensure that donated blood is used efficiently and effectively and to minimize waste while maintaining sufficient stock to deal with unexpected life-threatening emergencies. This study was conducted to determine the adequate stock level needed to operate the Blood Transfusion Center of the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University. We accessed the total number of transfusion units and cross-matching of blood components from our data base for 2009. The average daily weekly and monthly use was calculated. A stock of blood components (viz., red cells and plasma) is kept for 7 and 3 days, respectively. Stocks of platelets are kept for 3 days and cryoprecipitate for 4 weeks.  The stock levels included blood for emergencies (10 %) and to cover the expected growth in use over the year before (based on historical growth rates/usage). The results of our study showed an increased utilization in 2009 of:  red cells 3.1 % (28,202 units); plasma 14.1 % (18,268 units), platelet concentrates 20.3 % (22,754 units) and cryoprecipitates 28.0 % (11,178 units). The ideal blood inventory of red cell products in 2010 should be 766 units; 158, 266, 288 and 54 units of blood group A, B, O and AB, respectively.  The respective blood inventory for plasma, platelets and cryoprecipitates should be 548, 238, 1297 units. We also found that the red cell products would cover 3 days in the event of a shortage in the blood supply.  The ideal blood inventory for our Blood Transfusion Center will be based upon this evidence.  However, the inventory needs to be frequently checked for quality assurance and up-to-date stock counts. When the inventory level gets low, planning for restocking the blood supply should be done immediately as per policy. A statistical report on inventory levels throughout the year should be done each year for planning and evaluation purposes.