Evidence-Based Decision Making in Transfusion Medicine
Program Code: 130-S
Saturday, October 23, 2004
4:00 PM to 5:30 PM (ET)

SPEAKERS
Eleftherios C. Vamvakas, MD, PhD, Canadian Blood Services
Susan Whittaker, MSc, McMaster University
Nancy Heddle, MSc, FCSMLS(D), McMaster University

DESCRIPTION
This session will provide a broad overview of the various components to be considered when making evidenced-based laboratory and clinical decisions in transfusion medicine. Concepts will be illustrated using actual studies in the transfusion field. The material will be presented using both lectures and case/research studies providing the audience with practical information to apply in their workplace setting.

OBJECTIVES

• Apply the concepts surrounding decision-making when selecting a new laboratory test for screening the blood supply and for evaluating a new transfusion intervention
• Explain the concepts related to qualitative research in transfusion medicine using examples from a donor deferral study and a study to understand the functioning of hospital transfusion committees
• Assess the interactions between research, clinical expertise, clinical circumstances and patients' values and preferences when making evidence-based decisions in transfusion medicine

AUDIENCE
Physicians, Scientists, Technologists, Nurses, Managers/Supervisors

PROGRAM LEVEL
Basic to Intermediate