The Effect of COVID-19 on Blood Transfusion Service : A Global Systematic Review

Authors

  • Masfer Dafer Japran Al Masrea (1) *, Mohammad Saeed Al Bahri (1), Ali Mohammed Ahmed Al Qudrah (2), Abdullah Hassan Al Thayrayan (1), Ali Hussain Abdullah Al-Aji (1), Saleh Yahya Saleh Al-Khuraim (1), Ibrahim Nasser Alhatailah (1), Bader Salem Mohammad Al Alhareth (3)

Keywords:

COVID-19, Blood Transfusion Services, Donor Recruitment, Safety Protocols, Mobile Blood Collection

Abstract

Introduction:

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted healthcare systems globally, with blood transfusion services facing unprecedented challenges. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effect of the pandemic on these services, focusing on interventional studies and clinical trials to assess the strategies implemented to mitigate its impact, including changes in donor recruitment, safety protocols, and operational adjustments.


Methods:

A comprehensive search of databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library was conducted, focusing on the last years up to 2022. Only interventional studies and clinical trials that addressed the impact of COVID-19 on blood transfusion services were included. Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, with data extraction and methodological quality assessment following a structured approach.


Results:

Seven studies were included, with interventions ranging from digital donor recruitment campaigns to the adoption of mobile blood collection units and enhanced safety protocols. Notable findings include a risk ratio of 1.25 for increased blood donations following digital campaigns, a 20% increase in donations with mobile units, and no COVID-19 transmissions linked to the blood donation process due to stringent safety measures. However, the effectiveness of convalescent plasma therapy showed mixed results, emphasizing the need for further research.


Conclusions:

The review highlights several effective strategies to sustain blood transfusion services during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the importance of adaptability and innovation in healthcare responses to global health crises. The evidence supports the effectiveness of digital recruitment, mobile collection units, and strict safety protocols in maintaining blood supply and donor safety. These findings offer valuable insights for preparing and strengthening blood transfusion services against future challenges

Author Biography

Masfer Dafer Japran Al Masrea (1) *, Mohammad Saeed Al Bahri (1), Ali Mohammed Ahmed Al Qudrah (2), Abdullah Hassan Al Thayrayan (1), Ali Hussain Abdullah Al-Aji (1), Saleh Yahya Saleh Al-Khuraim (1), Ibrahim Nasser Alhatailah (1), Bader Salem Mohammad Al Alhareth (3)

1. Laboratory Technician, Regional Laboratory & Central Blood Bank, Najran, Saudi Arabia.
2. Laboratory Technician, Najran General Hospital, Najran, Saudi Arabia.
3. Laboratory Specialist, Najran New General Hospital, Najran, Saudi Arabia.

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Published

2022-12-23

Issue

Vol. 9 No. 4 (2022): The aftermath

Section

Articles