Patient Blood Management Week
In 1628, British physician William Harvey discovered the circulation of blood, laying the foundation for future studies into blood transfusion. In 1818, British obstetrician James Blundell performed the first successful human blood transfusion. Since then, blood transfusions have become routine in medical practice.
However, by the 21st century, further research revealed a pressing need to shift the focus of transfusion medicine. In 2005, Australian hematologist Professor James Isbister coined the term Patient Blood Management (PBM), recognizing that the emphasis should be on managing and preserving the patient’s own blood rather than relying solely on blood products. According to the Society for the Advancement of Patient Blood Management (SABM), PBM is a patient-centered approach where the entire healthcare team coordinates efforts to improve outcomes by managing and preserving a patient’s own blood.
WHY THE SHIFT?
Per SABM: “Blood transfusion is costly! While blood transfusion is safer than it has ever been, serious health risks remain. Evidence shows that patient outcomes are better when transfusions are reduced. Documented risks include potentially fatal transfusion reactions, acute lung injury, immune system changes that may lead to increased infection rate and circulatory overload.” The inappropriate use of blood transfusions is a common concern. Additionally, PBM satisfies the growing need to provide modern medical and surgical care for individuals who object to transfusions on religious grounds.
According to SABM, the average cost of transfusing one unit of red blood cells is $1,200. Recent studies indicate that up to 50% of transfusions may be unnecessary, leading to a societal cost of $8.4 billion USD annually, excluding complications. As the population ages, demand for blood is expected to outstrip supply. Transfused patients also tend to have longer hospital stays, further increasing healthcare costs.
Key Strategies of Patient Blood Management
PBM includes several strategies aimed at reducing unnecessary transfusions and improving patient outcomes:
Minimizing Blood Loss
This includes limiting blood draws, performing meticulous surgeries, and using medications that promote clotting.
Enhancing Blood Production
Medications such as erythropoietin, iron, vitamin C, vitamin B12, and folic acid can help boost blood production.
Anemia Tolerance
In some cases, fluid replacement and supplemental oxygen can help patients tolerate lower hemoglobin levels, reducing the need for transfusions.
Autologous Blood Management
Using the patient's own blood through techniques like blood salvage and hemodilution to avoid transfusions.
Studies estimate that up to 8–10 units of blood can be saved by applying a combination of these strategies.
The Importance of PBM
The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the urgent need to implement PBM globally. Patient Blood Management Awareness Week was established to educate patients, healthcare professionals, and the general public about the benefits of PBM, which include:
If you're interested in learning more about PBM, consult your doctor. Every individual deserves the best possible care, and understanding and making informed decisions about medical treatments is an important part of that process.