Autologous blood donation - can we bank on it?

Article Abstract:

There may still be a place for autologous blood transfusion following surgical operations. Autologous blood donation occurs when patients who are about to undergo surgery donate a pint or two of their own blood, which is given back to them after surgery. This practice arose in the mid-1980s when many people were concerned about contracting HIV infection or hepatitis from blood transfusions. Autologous blood transfusion is less critical now that blood banks routinely screen for HIV and the hepatitis C virus. A 1995 study found that the relatively expensive process of autologous blood transfusion is not cost effective when used to avoid transfusion-associated infections. However, blood from another donor can cause other problems, including lung injury and graft-versus-host disease. Intraoperative hemodilution is a simpler and cheaper type of autologous blood donation that may be more cost-effective.

Editorial, Analysis, Blood transfusion, Autologous, Autologous blood transfusion

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Occupational exposure to blood among medical students

Article Abstract:

Many changes will be required to protect medical students from contracting a blood-borne infection. One survey found that almost half of all graduating medical students were exposed to blood during their clinical clerkships. Over half the injuries were skin punctures. Medical students should be properly trained to draw blood and should use needles with safety features. If infected, they should be treated promptly but they should not be asked to pay for the treatment. Costs should be covered by insurance borne by the institution.

Injuries, Workplace accidents, Risk factors, Medical students

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Risks to health care workers in developing countries

Article Abstract:

International organizations must do more to teach medical personnel in developing countries how to prevent occupational exposure to infectious organisms. In particular, they should be taught not to re-use hypodermic needles.

World, except United States, Occupational health and safety, Occupational safety and health, International aspects, Diseases, Medical personnel

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