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Reported use of autotransfusion systems in initial resuscitation areas by one hundred thirty-six United States
Introduction:
The purpose of this study was to determine autotransfusion system availability and use in the initial resuscitation area.
Methods:
A 22-item questionnaire was mailed to 290 facilities across the country; 136 (46.8%) were returned. Questions included availability and use of the autotransfusion system, patient population, resistance to the system, frequency of in-service programs, use of anticoagulants, and recommendations regarding the use of autotransfusion systems.
Results:
One hundred seven hospitals (79%) reported autotransfusion system availability. Frequency of autotransfusion system initiation was as follows: always, 17 (15.9%); most of the time, 34 (31.8%); occasionally, 41 (38.3%); and never, 15 (14%). Not all patients who had an autotransfusion system initiated received shed blood. The most frequent reasons for not using an autotransfusion system were as follows: "not requested by medical staff," n = 50; "no need for autotransfusion system," n = 33; "preferred banked blood," n = 25; and "did not use [often] enough to maintain skill," n = 21. Those with more than one in-service program per year were more likely to use an autotransfusion system than those with one in-service program per year.
Discussion:
The majority of hospitals surveyed had autotransfusion system availability; however, autotransfusion system use was inconsistent. Two major areas influencing autotransfusion system use were having specific criteria for use and educational factors.