Key aspects to be covered when consenting patients for transfusion
Consenting-patients-prior-to-transfusions-based-on-the-SaBTO-guidance-and-NICE-guidance-NG24
- Patient and/or family/carer have been provided with relevant information about blood transfusions that would help in their decision-making process
- The reason for the transfusion has been discussed
- The benefits of the transfusion have been explained
- Transfusion risks, both short and long-term risks have been discussed with the patient and/or family/carer (including any additional risks pertinent to long term multi-transfused patients)
- The risks, benefits, and consequences of NOT accepting blood transfusion have been elaborated
- Transfusion issues specific to the patient have been highlighted
- Relevant alternative options have been discussed including how they might reduce the need for a transfusion
- The transfusion process has been explained
- The need for any specific requirements for blood components and rationale, including need for anti-D Ig post transfusion as appropriate has been elaborated and relevant patient information leaflet has been provided
- Patient and/or family/carer has also been informed that once transfused, they are no longer eligible to donate blood
- Patients and carers/family have been given the opportunity and been encouraged to ask questions
- Patient and/or family/carer is aware that if they change their mind at any point before the transfusion, they are entitled to withdraw their consent, and this should be documented and managed appropriately
- Synopsis of discussions and decisions taken documented in patient’s clinical notes
This guidance is based on the SaBTO guidance and NICE guidance NG24