Defining core competencies in transfusion medicine for resident physicians: A multi-specialty Delphi consensus study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Hematology
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Postgraduate trainees lack established transfusion medicine competencies.
• Resident physicians manage blood products and transfusion complications.
• There is a need for defined core competencies in transfusion medicine for residents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine essential transfusion-related competencies for resident physicians.
• To establish a consensus on core transfusion medicine knowledge for trainees.
• To identify key areas for curriculum development in transfusion medicine.

Main Methods:

• Modified Delphi method with clinical faculty and program leadership.
• Consensus achieved over two rounds using a 5-point Likert scale.
• Topics rated for clinical significance, meeting CVI and CVR thresholds.

Main Results:

• Nineteen experts participated, achieving 100% completion.
• Twenty transfusion medicine topics met consensus criteria (CVI ≥ 0.75, CVR ≥ 0.5).
• Top-ranked competencies include RBC and Platelet Transfusion Indications and Pulmonary Reactions.

Conclusions:

• Multispecialty consensus reached on core transfusion competencies for residents.
• Identified competencies can guide transfusion medicine curriculum development.
• Standardized curricula may enhance transfusion safety for patients.