Promoting the application of molecular biology techniques in blood transfusion safety

On September 27, Nghe An Hematology and Blood Transfusion Center organized a Conference on Blood Transfusion Safety and Application of Molecular Biology Techniques (NAT).

Attending the conference were Prof. Dr. Pham Quang Vinh - Deputy Director of the National Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Duong Dinh Chinh - Acting Director of Nghe An Department of Health; representatives of hospitals and medical centers with beds.

Associate Professor, Dr. Duong Dinh Chinh - Acting Director of Nghe An Department of Health delivered a welcome speech at the conference. Photo: Thanh Hoa

NAT technique is performed on a fully automated molecular biology analyzer to screen for HBV, HCV, and HIV viruses for high accuracy and sensitivity, bringing about significant effectiveness in shortening the window period detection time of viruses. This technique contributes to opening a new era of ensuring blood transfusion safety, providing safe and timely blood supply.

Currently, the Ministry of Health has issued a circular guiding the NAT molecular biology testing technique, allowing it to be applied at all blood transfusion centers and blood testing and screening departments of hospitals nationwide according to a specific roadmap.

Nghe An medical staff participate in blood donation. Photo: Thanh Hoa

Nghe An Hematology and Blood Transfusion Center officially operated independently since April 2016 with 2 main functions and tasks: Propagating and mobilizing blood donation, receiving, producing and supplying blood and blood products to hospitals throughout the province and neighboring areas; Examination and treatment of blood diseases.

In October 2017, Nghe An Hematology and Blood Transfusion Center applied NAT molecular biology technique to blood screening. This is a breakthrough in expertise, applying advanced technology to gradually bring blood units and blood products at the center to ensure blood transfusion safety according to international standards.

Prof. Dr. Pham Quang Vinh - Deputy Director of the National Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion shared his experience at the conference. Photo: Thanh Hoa

At this conference, leading experts nationwide in the field of blood transfusion safety shared and exchanged experiences related to blood donor selection, clinical examination, screening tests, blood collection, blood product production, blood storage and distribution, blood transfusion indications, clinical blood transfusion practices, and treatment of blood diseases.

Representatives of the National Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion answered questions about difficulties encountered in special cases requiring blood transfusion such as: cases requiring urgent emergency care, in remote areas without screening facilities; at the same time, the institute also shared experiences in handling situations in the process of receiving, producing, screening, storing and supplying blood and blood products to patients./.