Efficient quality improvement through the monitoring of Key Performance Indicators in the Quality management Review of a Blood Establishment (BE).

Abstract

Efficient quality improvement in Blood Establishments (BE) relies on monitoring Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) within the Quality Management Review (QMR). KPIs serve as objective measures to identify system weaknesses and promote continuous quality improvement. The QMR integrates KPI data with inputs from various sources like non-conformities and audit reports, facilitating informed decision-making for improvement initiatives. This study was conducted at the Transfusion Medicine Department of a General Oncology Hospital with the aim of evaluating the quality improvement. Over a period of 6 years (2018-2023) some interventions were implemented to enhance blood sufficiency and blood stock management. The aim of the present study was to assess the impact of these interventions on the values of KPIs and, consequently, on the effectiveness of the system regarding the examined issues. The values of the KPIs before and after the interventions were compared to identify statistically significant differences. The years following the interventions the WAPI% index for expired red blood cell units was reduced, the acceptance limits of units collected per blood drive were met, the blood units collected in the BE increased and the deficit in red blood unit was reduced. The selected KPIs were significantly improved with minor exceptions. In conclusion, the systematic monitoring of KPIs and strategic interventions underscored in this study illustrate how targeted quality management practices can enhance operational efficiency and ensure sustainable improvements in BEs. Ongoing efforts to refine these approaches aim to achieve broader quality enhancement goals across blood management practices.