Manage Your Resources: Data to Action: Closing the Gap

2018 AABB Annual Meeting Session

Program Chair: Nanci Fredrich, RN, BSN
Speakers: Nanci Fredrich, RN, BSN; Deborah Tolich, DNP, RN; Kimberly Waters, MSN, RN, CPHQ
Intended Audience: Technologist, Nurse, Transfusion Safety Officer
Teaching Level: Intermediate

Learning Objectives:

• Demonstrate the data to action process flow
• Define methods of formatting and displaying data to end-users
• Describe techniques to utilize data to drive projects or initiatives

Description: Over the past several years PBM metrics have evolved although there is not yet national benchmarking. Common metrics include overall product utilization, utilization adjusted by volume and severity, transfusion rates, average dose, trigger and targets, and others. These metrics over time demonstrate trending patterns that can indicate the need to investigate at a more granular level. Data in and of itself will not decrease or improve transfusion practice. Additionally, having data doesn’t guarantee that it is meaningful or will be translated and acted upon by recipients. It is the knowledge derived from the data that will provide the foundation for behavioral change to occur.

Decades of PBM experience have included many lessons learned surrounding data. This information can be helpful to others just starting out or sorting through data dilemmas in terms of time, efficiency, and end products. Given the limited resources of many PBM programs, clarity is needed around the purpose and goals of data as well as precision to identify needed data points. A data review process that includes communication pathways to get the information into the hands of individuals who have the ability to act is another important step. PBM can further make recommendations for actions that can be taken and offer assistance.

The scope of PBM not only spans blood utilization but also projects surrounding anemia management, blood administration, or transport to enhance patient safety. Incorporation of technology such as barcode scanning of patient and product for blood administration fall within the role of the TSO/PBM Coordinators. Creating a project plan and establishing the team are key components of successful implementation of EMR technology.

This session will include both presentation and panel discussion. Detailed information will be presented regarding PBM initiatives such as indication-based blood component ordering, use of restrictive transfusion thresholds or single unit RBC orders, and others. The session will encompass a “How did I”…create meaningful reports, communicate the message and initiatives, drive change and manage PBM projects as well as discussion by panel members. An over-arching goal of this session is to provide attendees with a variety of methods and techniques that can be operationalized at their organizations.