The program is based on a scientific, evidence-based, and multi-disciplinary tactic that is focused on improving patient safety and quality outcomes through promoting the optimal use of blood products. It is designed to ensure that each and every transfusion is appropriate, safe, and efficient in using resources to include blood products and components, healthcare providers’ time, laboratory testing, medical supplies, and healthcare dollars.
The program is an approach that is data driven, systems oriented, and patient centered. It aims at improving patient outcomes through reducing unnecessary and inappropriate transfusions leading to a decrease in complications, serious adverse events, inpatient length of stay, and readmission. The goals of the program are achieved by managing pre-operative anemia, adopting minimally invasive procedures, minimizing blood volume sampling, appropriate transfusion triggers, and proper usage of blood products.
The program demonstrates the hospital’s pursuit for evidence-based care and ensures that the life-saving gift of a blood donation is used appropriately and responsibly. It encompasses all aspects of patient evaluation and clinical management surrounding the transfusion decision-making process to include the application of appropriate indications, minimization of blood loss, and optimization of patient red-cell mass.
Utilizing the standards of blood management enables the organization to provide care for a large population of patients who refuse receiving blood products. The advanced technology and instrumentation used in the operating room and the availability of alternatives to blood products increase patient safety and improve outcomes.
Contact Information
Dr. Kimberly Sanford
Pager # 8762
804-828-2745
kimberly.sanford@vcuhealth.org