Pre-registration adult nurses’ knowledge of safe transfusion practice: Results of a 12 month follow-up study

Abstract

This research project ascertained student nurses' knowledge retention of safe transfusion practice following a standardised teaching and learning programme (produced by the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service, United Kingdom (UK)) within a School of Nursing in Scotland, UK. Several studies including the Serious Hazard of Transfusion (SHOT) annual reports demonstrated that there are risks to the patient in receiving blood components: receiving the wrong blood was the most common risk associated with blood transfusion (Ottewill, 2003; SHOT, 2007). This evaluative study used a questionnaire to assess the level of knowledge students (n=118) attained on the day of the session, 4-6 months and 11-12 months following the session. The study provided an insight into the effectiveness of a standardised teaching approach and highlighted areas for review in light of incorrect answers elicited. Despite all receiving the Standardised Programme, there was a wide range of initial overall scores achieved. The study demonstrated, within the small sample completing at all 3 time points, that there is clear degradation of knowledge during the study period. The influence of experience on knowledge retention appears to have a positive effect at 6 months but no appreciable effect at 12 months. These outcomes merit further, more robust and multi centre investigation to identify if there is replication of results.