When Technology Falters: Ensuring Donor Safety and System Reliability Amid Apheresis Technical Challenges

With the rising demand for platelet products, the use of apheresis-derived single donor platelets (SDPs) has grown substantially. While plateletpheresis is generally considered safe, it is not devoid of complications. This retrospective descriptive study reviews three adverse events that occurred during SDP collection at a transfusion medicine department. Root cause analysis (RCA) was employed using tools such as the 5 "Whys" technique and the Ishikawa (Fishbone) Diagram to identify underlying causes and propose preventive strategies. In the first incident, a first-time donor experienced vasovagal symptoms triggered by a visible blood leak from the apheresis kit. The second incident involved a centrifuge alarm and mid-procedure halt due to blood spillage caused by improper kit installation. The third incident was identified post-procedure when the platelet concentrate was found contaminated with red blood cells from a manufacturing defect. All donors recovered without lasting health effects; however, such technical or procedural failures can erode donor confidence, reduce willingness for repeat donations, and impact retention of valuable apheresis donors. The events in this case series highlight that adverse outcomes can stem from both equipment-related faults and human errors. Strengthening the voluntary apheresis donor base in India requires prioritizing donor safety, ensuring positive donation experiences, comprehensive staff training, adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs), and fostering a supportive, trust-based environment.