Transfus Apher Sci. 2025 May 15;64(3):104156. doi: 10.1016/j.transci.2025.104156. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Despite the potential of whole blood-derived platelets (WBDP) to mitigate platelet shortages, their underutilization persists globally. This study investigates the perceptions of transfusionists and identifies barriers to the adoption of WBDP within China’s blood supply system for tertiary hospitals.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A structured questionnaire comprising 16 items was distributed through WeChat to 254 transfusionists working in tertiary hospitals across China. Data regarding demographics, platelet preferences, and operational challenges were analyzed using descriptive statistics for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative responses.
RESULTS: Results indicated a strong preference for AP (95.28 %), primarily attributed to perceived safety (80.99 %), efficacy (75.21 %), and familiarity with its use (76.86 %). In contrast, WBDP adoption was impeded by concerns over transfusion reactions (85.04 %), safety uncertainties (77.20 %), and operational challenges, such as increased workload (74.41 %) and higher labor costs (50.39 %). Despite this, 90.19 % of respondents expressed willingness to use WBDP during AP shortages, primarily due to critical shortages (66.81 %) and institutional mandates (33.19 %). Moreover, the key barriers included the risk of transfusion reactions (85.04 %), uncertainties regarding safety (77.20 %), doubts about efficacy (57.48 %), and increased labor costs (50.39 %).
CONCLUSION: Institutional inertia favoring AP, along with operational costs and workload for transfusionists, limit WBDP utilization. Implementing centralized compatibility testing and subsidy policies could improve contingency preparedness and address operational challenges.
PMID:40393093 | DOI:10.1016/j.transci.2025.104156
