SHOT UK Collaborative Reviewing and Reforming IT Processes in Transfusion (SCRIPT) survey: laboratory information management systems: are we ready for digital transformation?
Davies, Jennifer Tuckley, Victoria McGrann, Alistair Rowley, Megan Clarke, Heather Baker, Peter Narayan, Shruthi
Davies, Jennifer
Tuckley, Victoria
McGrann, Alistair
Rowley, Megan
Clarke, Heather
Baker, Peter
Narayan, Shruthi
Abstract
Objectives
To understand the use, functionality and interoperability of laboratory information management systems (LIMS) in UK transfusion laboratories.
Background
LIMS are widely used to support safe transfusion practice. LIMS have the potential to reduce the risk of laboratory error using algorithms, flags and alerts that support compliance with best practice guidelines and regulatory standards. Reporting to Serious Hazards of Transfusion (SHOT), the United Kingdom (UK) haemovigilance scheme, has identified cases where the LIMS could have prevented errors but did not. Shared care of patients across different organisations and the development of pathology networks has raised challenges relating to interoperability of IT systems both within, and between, organisations.
Methods and Materials
A survey was distributed to all SHOT-reporting organisations to understand the current state of LIMS in the UK, prevalence of expertise in transfusion IT, and barriers to progress. Survey questions covered LIMS interoperability with other IT systems used in the healthcare setting.
Results
A variety of LIMS and version numbers are in use in transfusion laboratories, LIMS are not always updated due to resource constraints. Respondents identified interoperability and improved functionality as the main requirements for transfusion safety.
Conclusion
A nationally agreed set of minimum standards for transfusion LIMS is required for safe practice. Adequate resources, training and expertise should be provided to support the effective use and timely updates of LIMS. A single LIMS solution should be in place for transfusion laboratories working within a network and interoperability with other systems should be explored to further improve practice.
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Date
2023-12
Type
Article
Subject
Computer Systems, Blood Transfusion, Hospital Laboratories
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Citation
Davies J, Tuckley V, McGrann A, Rowley M, Clarke H, Baker P, Narayan S. SHOT UK Collaborative Reviewing and Reforming IT Processes in Transfusion (SCRIPT) survey: Laboratory information management systems: Are we ready for digital transformation? Transfus Med. 2023 Dec;33(6):433-439. doi: 10.1111/tme.13010. Epub 2023 Sep 30.