Transfusioonitoetus

Transfusioonitoetus refers to the system of policies, practices and resources that support the safe and appropriate use of blood transfusions in patient care. It encompasses clinical decision making, logistics, safety and governance needed to ensure that transfusions are used when indicated and that risks are minimized.

Key components include guidelines on when transfusions are indicated and when alternatives should be considered, processes for ordering and crossmatching blood, and informed patient consent. It also covers the handling, testing, storage and distribution of blood products, and safety measures to prevent transfusion-transmitted infections, transfusion reactions and other complications. Patient education and involvement in decision making are often part of transfusion support as well.

Patient blood management programs are a central element, aiming to reduce unnecessary transfusions through anemia treatment, minimization of blood loss, and restrictive transfusion strategies. Training and continuing education for clinicians, nurses and laboratory staff, as well as monitoring and quality assurance activities, are essential to maintain high standards of practice. Data collection, audits and reporting support ongoing improvement and help align practices with national or professional guidelines.

In Finnish healthcare, transfusioonitoetus is implemented through hospital transfusion services and governed by national guidelines and professional recommendations. It includes coordination between blood banks, clinical departments and regulatory authorities, with emphasis on patient safety, ethical considerations and cost-conscious use of blood products.