Abstract
INTRODUCTION: at the National Center for Blood Transfusion (NCBT) in Lomé, whole blood is systematically separated into its various labile blood products. This study aims to assess the quality of the red blood cell concentrates (RBCC) produced. METHODS: we conducted a cross-sectional study on 260 RBCCs (204 adult units and 56 paediatric units) from January to March 2018. The bags were weighed to determine the volume of their content. Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels were determined using the Horiba Medical Pentra XLR device. We evaluated the fidelity and precision of the device in order to ensure the accuracy of the measurements of the variables analyzed. Statistical analyses were performed using the R software. RESULTS: adult units assessment showed that 79.90%; 81.86% and 43.13% bags were consistent with respect to the volume and haemoglobin and haematocrit levels. Paediatric units assessment showed that 98.21%; 69.64% and 37.50% bags were consistent with respect to the volume and haemoglobin and haematocrit levels. Simultaneous analysis of the three parameters showed a compliance rate of 42.16% for RBCCs in adults against 35.71% for pediatric RBCCs. CONCLUSION: we recommend to expand the interval between two blood donations and to perform hemoglobin test before blood donation in compliance with the eligibility criteria for giving blood at the National Center for Blood Transfusion in Lomé.