For more than five decades, St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital’s mission has been to provide quality care to our patients—from state-of-the-art technology and procedures to best practices. Our Blood Management and Conservation Program is a significant example of our dedication and commitment to patient care.
The hospital-wide program—supported by highly skilled physicians, nurses, technicians and support staff—offers this treatment approach by utilizing techniques and products that may reduce the need for blood transfusions, potentially resulting in:
- Shorter hospital stay
- Reduction in blood loss
- Improved outcomes
- Less risk of infection
- Increased patient satisfaction
How is Blood Conservation Performed?
St. Luke’s Blood Management and Conservation Program uses proven, state-of-the-art techniques and specialized equipment to reduce or eliminate the need for blood transfusion. The following are some methods that may be utilized:
- Lab technologies that allow less blood to be drawn for testing.
- Specialized methodologies and equipment that may result in diminished blood loss.
- Medicines that encourage production of red blood cells and reduce blood loss during surgery.
- Intraoperative procedures enabling the use of a patient’s own blood.
The reduction of blood transfusions, which can be life-saving and will be used when necessary with a patient’s consent, reduces exposure to potential risks. Research has shown that blood conservation is a more safe and cost-effective approach to patient care.*
The adoption of available blood conservation techniques, either alone or in combination, in patients undergoing cardiac surgery, could result in an estimated 75 percent reduction of unnecessary transfusions.**
How do I Participate in the Blood Conservation Program?
All patients admitted to St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital will be a part of this beneficial program. Not all techniques will be applicable in every situation. Your physician will determine the best options related to your needs. At no time will your participation in this program limit your access to treatment as prescribed by your physician. Blood transfusions will be given when necessary, with your consent.
Patients who refuse blood therapies for religious or other reasons, even in life-threatening situations, may be contacted by the blood conservation coordinator once admitted to the hospital.
Treatment of Minors
State and federal laws may impose limitations on the ability to withhold or withdraw blood transfusions or blood therapy from minors, particularly in life-threatening situations. If you are considering blood conservation care for a minor, please consult your physician before treatment.
Questions
St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital is committed to ensuring that the care our patients receive is of high quality, reflects their choices and is compatible with their values and beliefs. For more information, contact our Blood Management and Conservation Program at 832-355-5233. For more information about blood management, visit the Society for the Advancement of Blood Management.
* The Joint Commission Perspective on Patient Safety. 2007 Jan, 7(1): 1-12
** Semin Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth. 2005 Mar, 9(1): 53
