In celebration of its 20th anniversary, the Transfusion Team have launched a 4-week awareness campaign designed to underscore the pivotal role it plays in promoting safe, effective, and appropriate transfusion practices.
The campaign aims to shed light on critical issues impacting clinical transfusion and emphasize the importance of vigilance in preventing Transfusion Associated Circulatory Overload (TACO).
TACO remains a significant concern as it continues to be a leading cause of transfusion-related deaths in Scotland.
Moira Caldwell, Transfusion Practitioner, said: “TACO is defined as acute or worsening respiratory compromise and/or acute or worsening pulmonary edema occurring during or within 12 hours of a blood transfusion. Additional features include unexplained cardiovascular system changes, evidence of fluid overload, and relevant biomarkers.
“TACO is a serious concern that requires our immediate attention. We must take every measure to ensure the safety of blood transfusions and minimize the risks associated with TACO.
“We should conduct a formal pre-transfusion risk assessment for TACO whenever possible. This assessment should be a standard practice for all patients receiving blood transfusions, with a particular focus on those aged over 50 or weighing less than 50kg. Mitigating actions should be taken based on the risk assessment.
“The Transfusion Team urges all medical professionals to support safe and appropriate transfusion practice by considering the principle of ‘Think About Choosing One.’ This approach involves authorizing a single unit of blood for non-bleeding patients and reassessing the patient’s condition before administering additional units. By following this protocol, lives can be saved, and the risks associated with TACO can be mitigated.”
A comprehensive TACO checklist is available on the front page of the National Transfusion Record for Health Boards, facilitating the process and reinforcing best practices.
By completing the TACO Checklist before every transfusion and adhering to ‘Think About Choosing One’ in non-bleeding adults, we can make a significant impact in reducing TACO-related incidents.
To stay informed and engage with the campaign, use the hashtag #SNBTSTransfusionTeam on social media and share your commitment to safe and appropriate transfusion practices.
