Blood components prescribing patterns among healthcare workers in Uganda: a cross-sectional survey

Effective and efficient blood component use is critical in Uganda’s unique healthcare context. Despite medical advancements enabling tailored blood components use, anecdotal reports suggest a preference for whole blood and packed red blood cells (PRBCs) among healthcare workers, potentially due to knowledge gaps and systemic barriers. This study sought to investigate the current prescribing patterns, healthcare workers’ (HCWs) knowledge of blood component indications and associated factors, and perceived barriers to blood component prescription in Uganda. An online cross-sectional study was conducted among HCWs involved in blood component prescriptions in Uganda. Ethical approval was obtained from Mulago National Referral Hospital’s Research and Ethics Committee. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire distributed via WhatsApp. Data analysis was performed in STATA using binary logistic regression model to determine the factors associated with good knowledge ( p < 0.05). Of the 306 participants, 213 (69.6%) were male with a mean age of 31 [SD = 6.0] years. Most participants were degree holders (237, 77.5%) and completed their highest qualification in the past 3 years. Only 176 (57.5%) had attended training on blood transfusion and 163 (53.3%) frequently prescribed blood. Most HCWs prescribe whole blood and PRBCs, and up to 124 (40.5%), 141(46.1%), and 255 (83.3%) have never prescribed platelets, fresh frozen plasma, and cryoprecipitate respectively. The mean knowledge score was 5.4 (SD = 2.0). Diploma and certificate holders had lower knowledge (aOR: 0.3, p = 0.037), while specialized officers showed higher knowledge (aOR: 2.4, p = 0.009) compared to general practitioners. Frequent blood prescribers were more knowledgeable (aOR: 2.1, p = 0.039). A negative correlation existed between knowledge scores and duration post-qualification and last training. Main barriers included lack of on-job training and facilities lacking specific blood components. This study reveals gaps in HCWs’ knowledge and prescribing patterns regarding blood components in Uganda. Suboptimal use of specific blood components suggests a need for targeted training interventions. Diploma and certificate holders, and those with limited prescribing experience, should be prioritized for educational initiatives. Investing in education, training, and infrastructure improvements within the healthcare system will be essential for ensuring safe, effective and efficient blood transfusion practices in Uganda and beyond.