When Every Drop Counts: The Value of Blood Utilization

Studies have shown that up to 60% of transfusions are inappropriate, suggesting no benefits and potential harm to patients, as well as the length of stay in the hospital and intensive care units is significantly longer for transfused versus non-transfused patients. With a national blood shortage and in support of the vision to create a healthier future for their patients through innovation, St. Joseph's Health initiated an analysis of their patient blood management practices and supporting technology. Leveraging a Lean Six Sigma performance improvement methodology, St. Joseph's Health collaborated with their EHR partner to focus on aligning clinical policy, practices, and workflow with the latest evidence reducing avoidable red blood cell and platelet transfusions. The primary objective focused on providing clinical decision support to providers at the point of the Red Blood Cell and Platelet transfusion orders, along with a sustainment plan to maintain and expand on gains realized. The efforts were a success with transfusion number and cost targets exceeded within the first quarter of results with continuous monitoring.