A 5-step root cause analysis model for test overutilization: A study on its application to plasma transferrin testing.

Objectives: This study aimed to develop a root cause analysis (RCA) model for test overutilization, applying it to transferrin overordering at our institution.

Methods: A comprehensive review was undertaken to establish a systematic RCA model. Upon implementation, the questionnaire identifying the root causes of transferrin overordering with infographic intervention was distributed to clinicians and nurses.

Whole blood clotting time: Current practices among Thailand National External Quality Assessment Scheme for blood coagulation member laboratories.

Introduction: The Thai National Guidelines for Hemostatic Laboratory Testing were established in 2018. The guidelines recommend that the 20-min whole blood clotting time (20WBCT) method be used to diagnose/monitor snake bites. The aim of this study was to survey members of the Thailand National External Quality Assessment Scheme (NEQAS) for Blood Coagulation to investigate the use of 20WBCT testing compared between the 2021 post-guideline and 2007 pre-guideline periods.

An evaluation of two small group learning strategies among third-year medical students at the Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University.

Small group learning (SGL) is a discussion-based teaching strategy that can improve critical thinking, analytical skills, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills. This study aimed to evaluate student satisfaction in two SGL models among third-year medical students enrolled in a blood and lymphoid systems II course at the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University in Bangkok, Thailand. A total of 318 students were divided into 12 groups, and each group had one facilitator.

Point-of-care glucose testing: on-site competency assessment.

Purpose: The purpose of this pilot paper is to use on-site assessment to determine common non-compliance in point-of-care (POC) glucose testing, deficiencies that should be improved by the POC team or emphasized in further training.

Design/methodology/approach: Assessment forms for POC site and staff competency were developed and used for direct observation in four POC sites. Nurses were sampled in these sites.

Use of an automated coagulation analyzer to perform heparin neutralization with polybrene in blood samples for routine coagulation testing: practical, rapid, and inexpensive.

Context: Heparin contamination in blood samples may cause false prolongation of activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and prothrombin time results. Polybrene can neutralize heparin, but it affects coagulation by itself.

Objectives: To determine the optimal concentration of polybrene to neutralize heparin, to determine the suitable sequence of reagents for the neutralization method performed on the analyzer at the same time as prothrombin time and aPTT testing, and to detect the heparin contamination in blood samples for coagulation tests in our hospital using this method.

Accuracy and precision evaluation of Thai plastic microhematocrit tubes: the first product from Thailand.

Background: In Thailand, the spun microhematocrit method is usually performed using glass microhematocrit tubes even though broken glass tube during use may result in a risk of injury and blood-borne infection. The main reason is that the safer product alternatives such as plastic microhematocrit tubes are more expensive. Now, plastic tubes for hematocrit determination can be produced in Thailand at a much cheaper price.

Mutation of ABO gene in Thai blood donors with A3 phenotype.

The ABO system is the most important of all blood group systems in transfusion practice. The subgroup gives a weak reaction when treated with anti-A or anti-B. The most common subgroup found in Thai blood donors is subgroup A3, which is characterized by mixed-field agglutination when reacted with anti-A and anti-A,B, was caused by mutation in the ABO gene, especially in the exon 7.