Transfusion knowledge of medical and surgical specialty board residents: a cohort study

摘要

Objectives This study was conducted to assess transfusion knowledge between different specialty board residents and to identify areas of need for further education. Background Physicians' knowledge of transfusion medicine (TM) is critical for patients' safety. Many clinicians who are involved in day-to-day transfusion practice have little or no formal training in TM. There are no studies to assess physician's TM knowledge locally. Methods A comprehensive anonymous survey was developed to assess baseline TM knowledge of all the residents. The survey is composed of different sections, including a questionnaire on resident's demographics, resident's self-reflection on their TM knowledge and 30 multiple choice questions addressing basic and clinical TM knowledge in two major domains: component selection and transfusion practice and transfusion safety and transfusion reactions. Finally, the residents' opinion on educational needs was assessed. Results A total of 130 residents were surveyed. The lowest score obtained among the two major domains assessed was in the transfusion safety and transfusion reaction domain, with a mean score of 4 center dot 34 of 15 (SD +/- 3 center dot 27). The mean score obtained on component selection and transfusion practice was 7 center dot 1 of 15 (SD +/- 3 center dot 74). A substantial proportion of the residents (74 center dot 7%) admitted minimal baseline knowledge in the field of TM. Finally, 94 center dot 5% of the residents admitted the need for more education during residency, whereas 49 center dot 5% thought additional education is required during the first year of practice. Conclusion This survey shows serious TM knowledge deficiency and indicates the need for additional education among all physicians during training.