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Analysis of fresh frozen plasma administration with suggestions for ways to reduce usage
J N Shanberge1, T Quattrociocchi-Longe
1Department of Clinical Pathology, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, Michigan 48073.
Abstract:
A programme for the daily monitoring of Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) usage, combined with continuous education in the correct use of FFP, was started at William Beaumont Hospital in 1985. In 2 years, this had resulted in a 77% reduction in FFP usage. An analysis of the type of cases which received FFP, after the major reduction had occurred, from July, 1985 through June, 1989 is presented. During this time 2,612 units were administered to 873 patients, an average of 54 units per month. According to the accepted criteria established by the Hospital Transfusion Committee, 67% of the transfused units on the medical service were deemed indicated, compared with 54% on the surgical service. Most of the FFP was used to treat patients with liver disease, or receiving coumadin, or undergoing coronary bypass surgery. Conditions which will decrease the need for FFP administration are also presented for consideration. The results indicate that a consistent monitoring and education programme can keep blood and blood component usage at a defensible minimum.
Insights
Implementing daily monitoring and education significantly reduced Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) usage by 77%. This program ensures appropriate blood component use, maintaining usage at a minimum.
Area of Science:
- Transfusion Medicine
- Hospital Administration
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) is a critical blood product with specific indications.
- Inappropriate use of FFP can lead to increased costs and potential patient harm.
- Effective strategies are needed to optimize FFP utilization in healthcare settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of a daily monitoring and continuous education program on FFP usage.
- To analyze the patterns of FFP administration after implementing the program.
- To identify conditions associated with FFP use and explore ways to reduce its need.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of a daily FFP usage monitoring program.
- Provision of continuous education on appropriate FFP transfusion practices.
- Retrospective analysis of FFP usage data from July 1985 to June 1989.
- Review of transfusion indications based on established hospital criteria.
Main Results:
- A 77% reduction in FFP usage was achieved within two years of program implementation.
- Over a four-year period, 2,612 units of FFP were administered to 873 patients.
- Indicated use of FFP was higher in the medical service (67%) compared to the surgical service (54%).
- Primary indications for FFP included liver disease, coumadin therapy, and coronary bypass surgery.
Conclusions:
- Consistent monitoring and education programs are effective in minimizing blood and blood component usage.
- Such programs contribute to a defensible minimum level of FFP administration.
- Optimizing FFP use requires ongoing vigilance and adherence to transfusion guidelines.