A Data-Management Tool for Reactive Sample Handling in Molecular Blood Donor Screening

Blood transfusion safety relies on complementary serological and molecular assays, whose accurate interpretation, especially in reactive cases, demands precise, traceable data management. This study aims to develop and evaluate a data-management application to support the handling of initially reactive samples detected during molecular screening of blood donors. The system was implemented within the Molecular Screening Laboratory of the Hellenic National Blood Transfusion Center (E.KE.A.), whose existing data management workflow is also described. Tested in a real laboratory setting, the application was assessed by a focus group of laboratory staff. The pilot evaluation showed high user satisfaction, smooth performance, data-integrity protections, and functional advantages over the existing workflow, while also identifying areas for future improvement. Despite its scalability limitations, the proposed tool strengthens reactive sample-handling processes and supports more efficient and reliable data management within blood donation services.