Analysis of Turnaround Time for Packed Red Blood Cell Delivery by Laboratory Information System: Shortening of Turnaround Time Through Quality Improvement Program

Lee, Seong Gyu; Shin, Kyung A; Kim, Hyun Soo

Abstract

BACKGROUND: As transfusion service is linked directly with patient's life and is often a race against time, efforts to shorten the turnaround time (TAT) for every step of transfusion process from blood request to blood transfusion are important. We introduce our experience for analysis and shortening of the packed red blood cell delivery time through quality improvement program for 2 years.
METHODS
From January 2003 to December 2004, we evaluated the mean TAT for each step of transfusion process in Bundang Jesaeng General Hospital using the computerized laboratory information system which is capable of recording the exact times of blood request (request), specimen reception (reception), crossmatch completed (preparation), and blood issue (issue). We analyzed the turnaround time of packed red blood issued and notified the obtained data to transfusion-related workers and changes in TATs during the period were evaluated according to the type and place of request.
RESULTS
Mean TAT from request to issue was significantly decreased from 174.4 minutes in 2003 to 126.7 minutes in 2004 (p<0.01). TAT from request to reception and TAT from preparation to issue were significantly decreased. No significant difference was observed according to type of request. Mean TAT was different according to place of request, with the operating and recovery room showing the shortest mean TAT from request to issue.
CONCLUSIONS
Our computerized TAT data helps us to understand each steps of transfusion process. Continuous monitoring of TAT and periodic publicity to clinical staff and nurse can shorten the mean TAT.