Critical information required for RCI referrals

RCI have recently investigated several incidents where incomplete or absent information provided to RCI by the referring labs has been identified as a contributory factor.

If you have any information on record that will affect the transfusion management or blood selection for your patient, this should be provided on the 1A referral form. Examples of information that should be provided are:

• Antibodies or requirement for antigen negative units recorded on your hospital LIMS
• Special requirements e.g. irradiated, CMV negative, washed etc
• Clinical information that may influence transfusion management such as the patient having a history of hyperhaemolysis

If you are unsure what information to include, RCI will be happy to advise and will refer you to the RCI consultant if you require support with transfusion management. 

If any critical information is not provided to RCI, this may result in incorrect blood selection or sub optimal transfusion management which may lead to transfusion of incorrect red cells, inappropriate transfusion, or significant delays. 

Julia Mahmood - Head of Lab, RCI Colindale