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Israel Journal of Health Policy Research

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Open Access 01-12-2017 | Original research article

Physicians’ lack of knowledge - a possible reason for red blood cell transfusion overuse?

Authors: Roni Rahav Koren, Celia Suriu, Orly Yakir, Luiza Akria, Masad Barhoum, Andrei Braester

Published in: Israel Journal of Health Policy Research | Issue 1/2017

Abstract

Background

A significant percentage of red blood cell transfusions are inappropriately overused. This study investigated physicians from the western Galilee in terms of their knowledge of transfusion medicine as a potential reason for red blood cell overuse, and assessed the influence of personal background characteristics on their knowledge.

Methods

Data were collected via anonymous questionnaires. The questionnaires included a personal background section and a professional section. Study participants were grouped according to field of specialty, seniority, and location of medical school graduation, in order to correlate participant characteristics with knowledge.

Results

Scores were calculated on a 0–100 scale. The overall knowledge of the study population was low (mean score 47.8 ± 18.6). Knowledge regarding basic physiology of red blood cell transfusion was also low. Internal medicine physicians and senior physicians had significantly greater overall knowledge scores and were more familiar with a restrictive blood management policy than were surgeons and residents, respectively. Comparing knowledge scores, no difference was found regarding indications for transfusion.

Conclusion

General and fundamental knowledge in transfusion medicine is lacking among physicians in the non-operating room setting, which may play a role in red blood cell transfusion overuse. Field of specialty and professional status influenced knowledge of transfusion medicine. Educational programs and increased physicians’ awareness might help decrease unnecessary transfusions.

Trial registration

Not applicable.

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Title: Physicians’ lack of knowledge - a possible reason for red blood cell transfusion overuse?
Authors: Roni Rahav Koren
Celia Suriu
Orly Yakir
Luiza Akria
Masad Barhoum
Andrei Braester
Publication date: 01-12-2017
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Israel Journal of Health Policy Research / Issue 1/2017
Electronic ISSN: 2045-4015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13584-017-0173-0

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Physicians’ lack of knowledge - a possible reason for red blood cell transfusion overuse?

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Trial registration

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Trial registration

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