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Background and Objectives: Blood transfusions are frequently prescribed for acute and chronic conditions. When transfused judiciously, blood can save life and improve the health of the patient(s). However, transfusion of blood and blood components is never risk-free. Despite this, transfusion consent may not be obtained satisfactorily. We assessed the knowledge of patients about their blood transfusion and consenting process and the impact of structured information on their knowledge. Methods: A cross-sectional qualitative study design was employed. The study included all consenting adult patients who were intended recipients of red blood cell transfusion. Patient information sheet (PIS) along with pre- and postquestionnaire was administered to study patients. Results: Our study examined patients "knowledge and their attitude" about blood transfusion and recalling of their decision on consenting to transfusion. For the reason of being transfused, 58.5% were not aware, while 73% were unaware about the benefits of blood transfusion. Similarly, 85.5% were unaware about the risk of blood transfusion. There was a lack of knowledge about the "alternative option" of blood transfusion. Our findings also suggest that a standardized informed consent process was not being carried out. Conclusion: There is a need for strengthening IEC in the blood transfusion process. The present study has highlighted the role of printed/written information (PIS) in the native language and in imparting knowledge in the context of blood transfusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Indian studies on evaluation of storage lesions in red blood cells (RBCs) are either limited to 21 or 28 days or have evaluated limited parameters for 42 days. Moreover, issue of transfusion of "fresh" versus "old" RBC is far from settled. The study serially assesses, up to 42 days, in vitro and in vivo RBC storage lesion parameters, including di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) leaching and its comparison with published literature. Methods: The study serially assessed in vitro RBC storage lesion parameters including potassium, lactate, glucose, pH, supernatant hemoglobin, percentage-hemolysis, and DEHP leaching of RBC unit during storage till 42 days. The study also evaluated in vivo recovery of potassium after transfusion of "older" RBC. Results: Serial monitoring of in vitro biochemical parameters showed increase in potassium, lactate, supernatant Hb, and hemolysis% and reduction in glucose and pH. DEHP content of the RBC bag was within no-observed adverse effect limit on days 42. Measurement of serum potassium after transfusion of "older" RBC unit revealed that levels of potassium were within normal limit in all four patients. Sterility testing done on days 42 was negative for all 24 bags. Conclusion: Development of storage lesions is inevitable. Appropriate storage limits the RBC lesions to within normal limits. The increase in potassium, lactate, or hemolysis consequent to aging of blood has little clinical significance in routine transfusion practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]