Transfusion Algorithm Educating Providers on Correct Use of Specialty Blood Products May Lead to Decrease in Risk of GVHD in Outpatient Setting
Implementation of a transfusion algorithm in an outpatient oncology clinic led to a significant increase in the education around the appropriate use of cytomegalovirus (CMV)-negative and irradiated blood products (IRBP), which could yield a decrease in the risk of the development of transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease (TA-GVHD), according to findings published in Journal of the Advanced Practitioner in Oncology.
As there is not a standardized indication for the use of CMV-negative and IRBP products, there is often a lack of understanding of proper use among providers. To address this need, researchers conducted an experimental project to evaluate the use of a transfusion algorithm aimed to reduce TA-GVHD and reduce negative outcomes among patients in an outpatient oncology clinic.
Researchers compared 12 weeks of transfusion data prior to algorithm implementation with transfusion data for 12 weeks following implementation.
Following implementation of the transfusion algorithm and targeted educational services on TA-GVHD, correct use of both CMV-negative and IRBP significantly increased among providers treating patients.
Pre- and post-test survey data demonstrated improved provider knowledge, particularly on the appropriate use of specialty blood products.
The researchers concluded, “The transfusion algorithm resulted in a clinically significant increase in the correct use of both CMV-negative and irradiated blood products at an outpatient oncology clinic.”
Source:
Ezell S. Improving use of cytomegalovirus negative and irradiated blood products in an outpatient oncology clinic. Journal of the Advanced Practitioner in Oncology. Published online July 14, 2025. doi:10.6004/jadpro.2025.16.4.2
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