Vol. 21 No. 3s (2024): Volume 21, Number 3s – 2024
Original Article

Effectiveness Of Blood Bank Management Systems And Technological Advancements In Improving Transfusion Safety A Review Of Studies From Saudi Arabia And The Gulf Region

Published 2024-03-15

Keywords

  • Blood Bank Management System, Transfusion Safety, Blood Transfusion Errors, Technological Advancements, Blockchain, Healthcare Informatics.

Abstract

Introduction: Blood transfusion is a cornerstone of modern healthcare, yet the "transfusion chain" remains susceptible to risks and severe adverse events. Ensuring safety requires a complex management of five essential factors: the safety of collected blood, secure processing and storage, accurate recipient assessment, robust biovigilance, and the implementation of comprehensive quality guidelines. The primary goal of contemporary Blood Bank Management Systems (BBMS) is to transition from human-dependent monitoring to a technology-safeguarded system that eliminates "Never Events," such as transfusing the wrong product to the wrong patient.

Study Objective: This study investigates the impact of Blood Bank Management Systems (BBMS) and technological advancements on transfusion safety and efficiency within healthcare facilities in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.

Methodology: The researchers conducted a narrative review of literature published between 2015 and 2025, including peer-reviewed journals, institutional reports, and case studies. A total of 57 studies and one report were finalized for review using a structured data matrix and thematic analysis.

Conclusion: Advanced BBMS and digital innovations have fundamentally shifted transfusion safety from a manual, human-dependent process to a technology-safeguarded system. Mandatory accreditation by bodies like CBAHI serves as a primary driver for this digital transformation. However, challenges regarding data interoperability, cybersecurity, and workforce readiness remain critical areas for future policy and research.