Aim To investigate the incidence of obstetric haemorrhage over a 6 month period

To evaluate the rate of compliance with the Trust Transfusion Policy and use of the PBAR system for electronic traceability of blood products

To improve use of blood products in Obstetric Haemorrhage

Methods Data were collected retrospectively from case notes of patients transfused between 01/05/09 and 31/10/09 (36 patients)

Attitudes of midwives and medical staff towards transfusion policies were investigated using a questionnaire

Results 266 postpartum haemorrhages occurred out of 1745 births during the 6 month period, 35 of which were transfused, 13 of which had major haemorrhages (>2500ml loss)

16/36 Trust Blood Transfusion Pathways were completed (44.4%)

4/149 units of blood product given were checked (2.68%)

13 patients with low EBL required transfusion

Lack of compliance with policies was due to lack of awareness of the importance of electronic traceability of blood products

Conclusion Use of PBARS scanner and documentation of transfusions is poor

Review of the location and number of scanners within the department is necessary

Formal training and education of staff about transfusion policies is necessary for electronic traceability to work

Estimation of blood loss needs to be improved