The use of blood products in paediatric oncology units in the UK

The clinical practice group of the Royal College of Nursing paediatric oncology nurses' forum carried out an exploratory study to examine practice in administration of blood products in children's cancer centres across the UK to identify any variances in practice.

A questionnaire covering the use and administration of red cells, platelets and other supportive measures was distributed to each of the 22 UK Children's Cancer Study Groups centres of which 14 responded (63 per cent).

Variations among the units were found in all aspects of blood product administration including decisions about when to transfuse, methods of transfusion, treatment of adverse reactions and use of supportive products. There were some differences between the practices reported and guidance for transfusion in neonates and older children published by the British Committee for Standards in Haematology Transfusion Task Force (2004); many of these differences were attributable to the specific needs of oncology patients.

The development of national guidance or minimum safe standards specifically for paediatric oncology patients could assist in reducing practice variations. This study was undertaken in children's cancer units where administration of blood products is a daily occurrence. Variations in practice that were identified here are likely to be found in non oncology/haematology settings.