Single Plasma Unit Transfusions in Adults Are Either Unnecessary or Underdosed

Area of Science:

• Transfusion Medicine
• Hematology
• Patient Blood Management

Background:

• Previous studies indicate higher inappropriate use of plasma compared to other blood products.
• Weight-based dosing protocols are typical for plasma transfusions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the appropriateness of single plasma transfusions in adults.
• To determine if single plasma transfusions are nontherapeutic or outside clinical guidelines.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of nonoperative, nonapheresis plasma use was conducted.
• Plasma transfusions were assessed for compliance with institutional, national, and society guidelines.

Main Results:

• Nearly half (48.6%) of plasma units were transfused against guidelines.
• 40.3% of plasma units were single transfusions, and all were either underdosed or outside guidelines.
• Plasma transfusions for "Other" indications were more likely to be inappropriate.

Conclusions:

• Nonoperative, nonapheresis plasma use frequently deviates from clinical guidelines.
• Single-unit plasma transfusions in adults represent a target for optimizing plasma utilization and minimizing waste.