Impact of red blood cell transfusion on clinical and hematological outcomes in hospitalized patients

Abstract

Blood transfusion is a vital healthcare therapy and lifesaving procedure, yet research on its effects has shown mixed results, with some studies in Ghana questioning its appropriate use. This study aimed to assess the clinical and hematological effects of red blood cell transfusion at Ho Teaching Hospital. In a cross-sectional design, clinical and demographic data were obtained from electronic records of 102 consenting patients prescribed transfusion. Hematological data were collected by analyzing pre- and post-transfusion blood samples, while clinical outcomes were documented 24 h post-transfusion. A total of 102 patients participated in this research. The severities of participants’ conditions were categorized as mild (2.9%), moderate (32.4%), severe (55.9%), and critical (8.8%). The changes in the means of Hb (1.03 g/dl), RBC (0.37 × 1012/L), hematocrit (3.05%) and platelets (26.87 × 109/l) were significantly associated with the blood transfusion ( p < 0.05). Also, the clinical outcomes were significantly related to the severity of the conditions ( p < 0.05). The study concluded that, the use of transfusion as part of treatment yielded positive outcomes both clinically and hematologically. The severity of the diagnosed conditions also affected the clinical outcomes. Subsequently, assessments for transfusion should consider the hematological parameters, clinical examination and other factors related to the patient's diagnosis.