REPORTS OF ADVERSE EVENTS TO BLOOD TRANSFUSION IN SLOVENIA IN 2002

Abstract

Background. The risk of severe adverse events to blood transfusion is very low. More frequent are adverse events to transfusion, which are not severe, but must also be treated. Introduction of the haemovigilance system is a way of detecting and analysing them in order to correct their cause and to prevent their recurrence. Methods. In 2002 we collected data on transfusion adverse events registered by the Blood Transfusion Centre of Slovenia and blood transfusion departments in Slovene general hospitals. Results. 86 adverse events to transfusion were reported in 2002. The most frequent were non-haemolytic fever (42 cases) and allergic reactions (27 cases). 5 cases of haemolysis and 1 of pulmonary oedema were also reported. 11 cases were not categorised. Conclusions. We suppose that the collected data is not complete. However, it does give us insight into the clinical part of the transfusion chain. The most frequently registered adverse events in Slovenia are the same as in other countries. The presented data is the beginning of a systematic registration, using standard forms and reporting. Analysis and a followup activities are the basis for improvement of the blood transfusion safety and quality of treatment.