Design, development and implementation of a new transfusion safety system at the Banc de Sang i Teixits in Catalonia...

Although blood component transfusion is a safe procedure, it remains vulnerable to preventable errors related to patient and product identification, protocol adherence and staff training. In Catalonia, significant heterogeneity persists in transfusion safety systems (TSS), spanning from basic procedures to advanced technologies, resulting in process variability and potential risks to patient safety. In response, the Banc de Sang i Teixits (BST) prioritized the development of a unified, proprietary TSS. This study aimed to design, evaluate and implement a robust, reliable system to promote a safer, homogeneous and sustainable transfusion environment across Catalonia.

A longitudinal implementation study was conducted over 3 years to oversee the development, user training, deployment, adaptation and maintenance of the new TSS. The project was structured into sequential phases, each involving specific tasks carried out by a multidisciplinary team of functional and technical professionals. Regular in-person and virtual meetings were held throughout all phases to monitor progress and ensure alignment with project objectives.

The main outcome was the successful development and implementation of a proprietary BST TSS tailored to the needs of healthcare professionals. Key milestones included needs assessment, system specification, software development, comprehensive testing, structured staff training, hospital deployment and continuous monitoring to ensure proper adoption.

The newly developed system provides a robust, adaptable and clinically aligned solution designed 'by healthcare professionals for healthcare professionals'. Despite organizational and technical challenges, a structured methodology, collaborative work and continuous validation ensured achievement of project objectives.