Measuring Knowledge of Blood Transfusion: A Survey of Jordanian Nurses
Dr. Belal M. Hijji, Dr. Arwa E. Oweis, Dr. Rasha S. Dabbour

Abstract
Objectives: To investigate Jordanian nurses’ knowledge of blood transfusion. Methods: This was a descriptive study that involved a random sample of registered nurses from four public and university hospitals in Jordan. A modified version of the Routine Blood Transfusion Knowledge Questionnaire (RBTKQ) comprising seven sections and 43 items was used. Results: Three hundred and five nurses (95.3%) completed the RBTKQ, with a mean knowledge score of 51.3% (SD 7.3). The majority of nurses lacked knowledge with regards to patient preparation prior to blood bag collection, and the importance of proper patient identification and how to perform this. In addition, 279 (92%) reported that they would thaw up blood using invalid and, potentially, harmful methods. Conclusion: This study highlighted serious knowledge deficits which have the potential to threaten patient safety and reduce the effectiveness of the transfusion. Patients are placed at serious preventable risks such as receiving incorrect transfusions and acquiring bacterial infections. Mandatory ongoing blood transfusion training for Jordanian nurses is warranted urgently.

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