Pilot project to use electronic forms for look-back investigations underway

The pilot uses MS (Microsoft) Forms to collect data from hospitals on transfusion recipients when tracing components in look-back investigations. Currently MS Word forms are used. 

Look-back investigations are initiated on recognition that there may have been a risk of transmitting infection from a donor to a recipient. We have a regulatory requirement to conduct these investigations (please refer to the JPAC website for more information).

A DPIA (Data Protection Impact Assessment) for using MS Forms for this purpose has been approved by NHSBT’s Data Security, Privacy, and Records Management. 

Using the forms aims to improve the effectiveness of the tracing process by collecting data more accurately and efficiently. It is crucial hospitals return data promptly to ensure no harm comes to recipients and allows for onward referral, if appropriate.

The Epidemiology team have attended meetings with transfusion laboratory managers, user groups and teams within the RTCs (Regional Transfusion Committees) to present the change, which was well received.

For information about the forms email epidemiology@nhsbt.nhs.uk and for clinical enquiries regarding the look-back process email nhsbt.transfusionmicrobiology@nhs.net.

Tali Yawitch - Scientist, NHSBT/UKHSA Epidemiology unit