46-month research demonstrates safety of FDA guidance for low pulse rate population
Blood donors with low pulse rates experience fewer negative reactions than the general blood donor population, according to a review conducted at the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center.
Negative reactions – including things like bruising, dizziness or soreness – were reported in just 0.53% of donors who had a pulse rate of 50 beats per minute or less, compared to 3.36% of all donors during the same period.
Following the eligibility change, STBTC wanted to make sure blood donation was safe for donors with lower pulse rates.
Procedure
To follow the FDA guidance, the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center established this procedure:
- When a donor was recorded with a pulse rate of 50 or lower, the phlebotomist contacted a nurse.
- The nurse would evaluate the donor’s athletic activity and build, and make sure the donor had no cardiac issues.
- The nurse would contact a physician, who would make the final determination about the donor’s suitability.
Just 13 reactions in low pulse rate donors were reported. None of the reactions were classified as severe.
“At STBTC, we want to ensure the safety of our donors,” said Dr. Samantha Gomez Ngamsuntikul, Associate Medical Director. “Donors with low pulse rates can donate safely.”
The research has been accepted for a poster presentation at the virtual AABB Annual Meeting.
Schedule a donation to give blood today by calling 210-731-5590 or visiting SouthTexasBlood.org/Give.
Image via: Personal Trainer Academy.
