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Updated: Nov 11, 2025
Routine Screening Method for Microparticles in Platelet Transfusions
Published on: January 31, 2018
Implementation of a neonatal platelet transfusion guideline to reduce non-indicated transfusions using a quality
Patricia E Davenport1,2, Jenny Chan Yuen3, Julie Briere4
1Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. Patricia.Davenport@childrens.harvard.edu.
Objective:
Variation exists in neonatal platelet transfusion practices. Recent studies found potential harm in liberal platelet transfusion practices, supporting the use of lower transfusion thresholds. Our aim was to reduce non-indicated platelet transfusions through implementation of a restrictive platelet transfusion guideline.
Study Design:
Platelet transfusions from January 2017 to December 2019 were classified as indicated or non-indicated using the new guideline. Interventions included guideline implementation and staff education. Outcomes were evaluated using statistical process control charts. Major bleeding was the balancing measure.
Result:
During study, 438 platelet transfusions were administered to 105 neonates. The mean number of non-indicated platelet transfusions/month decreased from 7.3 to 1.6. The rate of non-indicated platelet transfusions per 100 patient admissions decreased from 12.5 to 2.9. Rates of major bleeding remained stable.
Conclusions:
Implementation of a restrictive neonatal platelet transfusion guideline significantly reduced potentially harmful platelet transfusions in our NICU without a change in major bleeding.
