In a bid to ensure the availability of blood for patients who truly need it, the Executive Director of Uganda Blood Transfusion Services (UBTS), Dr. Dorothy Kyeyune, has called on health workers to exercise caution in using blood.
Speaking at the 11th International Congress of the Africa Society for Blood Transfusion (AfSBT), held on March 4, 2024, at Speke Resort Munyonyo, Dr. Kyeyune stressed the need to reserve blood supplies for critical cases.
During her keynote speech, Dr. Kyeyune likened blood to a parachute, highlighting the importance of having it readily available when a life depends on it. She emphasized the necessity of preserving blood for those patients in urgent need of transfusions.
“It is crucial that we assess the necessity of blood transfusions for each patient. We must ensure that this precious resource is reserved only for those who truly require it,” said Dr. Kyeyune.
Dr. Kyeyune urged healthcare practitioners to carefully weigh the need for transfusions for each patient before proceeding. By doing so, the blood supply will be sufficient to meet the needs of those in critical condition, she explained.
“Before deciding to transfuse a patient, it is vital to critically evaluate if they truly require a blood transfusion and whether they can survive without it. Making this assessment will ensure that blood remains adequate for those who really need it,” added Dr. Kyeyune.
The 11th International Congress of the Africa Society for Blood Transfusion (AfSBT) brought together experts in transfusion medicine including haematologists, policymakers, and key stakeholders. The primary objective of the congress was to enhance transfusion safety on a global scale.
Prominent figures in the medical field led discussions on improving blood management strategies, exploring innovative techniques, and addressing challenges within the blood transfusion services.