Evidence Based Transfusion Practice in surgical intensive care unit at a tertiary care hospital

Objective To evaluate the practices of surgical intensive care in comparison to new evidence based transfusion practice guidelines. Methods The study was carried out at surgical intensive care unit (SICU) of Shifa International Hospital, for a period of two months from 1st February, 2008 to 31st March 2008. The auditor was independent of the individuals making decisions about transfusion. All the patients were assessed each day during the audit period and data extracted from the charts and flow sheets of the patients. Results During the study period, 149 patients were admitted in SICU. Blood was transfused in 69 (46%) of patients of patient. Model transfusion trigger was 8g/dl in 58 (39%) of subjects. 74 (45%) patients received only one unit. Post transfusion hemoglobin (Hb) was 9g/dl in 30 (20%) of patients. Conclusion Hb of 8g/dl was used as a trigger for transfusion by most of the clinicians.