The platelet concentrates (PCs) is used for the treatment and prevention of bleeding in patients with reduced platelet number or function. The prepared platelet concentrates (PCs) must meet the specified quality control (QC) test standards. PCs that do not meet QC standards will reduce the efficacy of patient care and increase the need of repeated PC transfusion. According to the standards, at least 75% PCs tested should contain more than 60 x 109 per platelet count units. Hence, the objective of this study was to increase the percentage of PCs that meet the platelet count standard to more or equal to 75%.
A cross sectional study was conducted from May 2015 to March 2016. Data were collected and analysed through monthly PCs QC test results. A retrospective QC data review in March and April 2015 showed only 30% PCs achieved the platelet count standard for QC tests. Intervention package was implemented to tackle the identified risk factors that lead to platelet count problems that do not meet the standards.
The post remedial results showed an increase to 90% of PCs that meet platelet count standards in January to February 2016. The study also found that the rate of platelet count increment in patients after PCs transfusion increased from 5 x 109 per ml to 9 x 109 per ml after the study. Additionally, the repeated PC transfusion rate decreased from 22% to 18%. Achievements were successfully maintained after the study which was 89% in March to April 2017. Continuous monitoring need to be carried out to ensure the achievement remains in compliance with the established standards. This quality improvement method has facilitated successful platelet transfusion to patient by improving the quality and performance of PCs. The improvement strategies of this study have the potential to be implemented at other blood collection centers in order to improve the quality of healthcare services.