Blood transfusions in the emergency department: A descriptive analysis and referral patterns at a non-trauma center

These findings highlight the significant burden of outpatient referrals for anemia in an ED setting, representing over half of all encounters, often for asymptomatic patients or those who were clinically stable. While most patients were admitted, a considerable proportion of those referred from outpatient settings were discharged, suggesting that some ED referrals may be preventable. The study underscores the need for refined referral processes, including optimizing access to outpatient transfusion services and considering alternative management strategies for stable anemic patients, such as iron therapy. Developing multidisciplinary protocols could reduce unnecessary ED visits and associated healthcare costs, ultimately improving patient care and system efficiency. Future research should focus on prospective data to better understand the factors driving ED referrals for anemia and evaluate interventions aimed at improving referral workflows and reducing the need for transfusion in stable patients.