Controlling Phlebotomy Volumes in the PICU Reduced Blood Transfusions

Repeated phlebotomy contributes to high rates of anemia in children who are critically ill. In the current study, researchers employed quantitative and qualitative methods to evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention to reduce excessive phlebotomy in a single 30-bed pediatric intensive care unit (PICU).

The intervention employed four strategies: compiling a bedside reference guide on minimal volumes for common laboratory tests; using a closed-loop system to minimize blood discarded from central venous catheter blood draws; using microtubes whenever possible; and standardizing blood volume for cultures.

A multidisciplinary team introduced the intervention to PICU nurses and provided audit and feedback on performance of the intervention.

Com…