Critical Assessment of Transfusional Practices in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department At the University Hospital of Kinshasa

Abstract

Introduction: Gynecology and obstetrics are among the specialties where blood transfusion is most practiced. This situation requires the use of good transfusion practices. The objective of this study was to assess the quality of transfusion practice in the Gynecology and Obstetrics Department of the University Hospital of Kinshasa (UHK). Methods: This is a prospective, evaluative and descriptive study performed at the Department of Gyneco-Obstetrics of the University Hospital of Kinshasa from February 25 to June 25, 2020; which dealt with patients who received at least one blood transfusion. Results: About 498 patients, 54 patients were transfused and their average age was 36.4 years, with the extremes of 14 and 60 years, the transfusion rate was 10.8%. Most of patients (n=36: 2/3) were transfused during weekend days, sachets were used as delivery materials of blood product in 57.4% of cases (n = 31). Among the prescribers of blood products, 70.4% were nurses. All transfusions were carried out in type-specific and cross-matched Rh. All the transfused patients were not aware of the disadvantages of transfusion. Compatibility tests at the patient’s bedside were not performed in 61.1% of cases and the concordance control between the patient and the blood component to be transfused was not performed in 70.4% of cases. Close monitoring of blood transfusion in the first ten minutes was not performed in 59.3% of cases. Conclusion: Transfusion encounters real practical problems in the gyneco-obstetrical environment of countries with limited resources. However, an assessment and multidisciplinary collaboration would be necessary to improve transfusion practice in medical field.