AIIMS, Jammu and National Institute of Biologicals, Noida collaborate to Advance Hemovigilance Practices

JAMMU, August 10: The Department of Transfusion Medicine at AIIMS Jammu, in collaboration with the National Institute of Biologicals (NIB) Noida, successfully conducted a two-day Continuing Medical Education (CME) program focused on advancing hemovigilance practices.

The event was held on 9th and 10th August 2024. This two-day CME on “Hemovigilance and its clinical relevance” was aimed at sensitizing the Faculty from Clinical Departments, Senior residents, Nursing faculty, Senior Nursing officers, and Nursing Officers of the Institute about the clinical relevance of the concept of Hemovigilance.

This knowledge will improve their understanding of transfusion-related risks, promote adherence to best practices, and foster a culture of safety and continuous improvement.

The CME, was attended by 120 participants. This two-day event was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Executive Director & CEO of AIIMS Jammu, Prof. (Dr.) Shakti Kumar Gupta, along with the Guest of Honor, Lt. General Prof. (Dr.) Sunil Kant, Medical Superintendent and Dean (Research) along with Dean Academics, Prof (Dr.) Meeta Gupta.

The program featured a series of expert-led sessions and interactive discussions on the latest advancements and best practices in hemovigilance, a critical component in ensuring the safety and efficacy of blood transfusions.

The program included various interactive talks and expert-led sessions on the most recent developments and best practices in hemovigilance, which is essential to ensure the safety and efficacy of blood transfusions.

Key highlights of the CME included: Expert Presentations: Renowned speakers like Prof. (Dr.) Gita Negi, Professor and Head, Department of Transfusion Medicine at AIIMS Rishikesh, Dr. Gopal Patidar, Additional Professor, AIIMS New Delhi, and Dr. Akangsha Bisht, Scientist Grade-I, National Institute of
Biologicals, Noida and who is also Head of Immunodiagnostic Kit laboratory and Hemovigilance program of India (HvPI) shared their insights on emerging trends, regulatory updates, and practical strategies for improving hemovigilance systems. Topics that were covered included the Hemovigilance Program of India, adverse blood reaction monitoring, administration of blood components, and the implementation of national and international standards.

Interactive CME: Participants engaged in case-based discussions designed to address practical challenges in hemovigilance. These sessions provided practical knowledge for identifying, managing, and reporting transfusion-related adverse events.

Networking Opportunities: The CME allowed professionals to connect, exchange knowledge, and develop partnerships, creating a community committed to enhancing transfusion safety Prof. (Dr.) Shakti Kumar Gupta, ED & CEO , AIIMS Jammu, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “This CME underscores our commitment to advancing transfusion medicine and ensuring the highest standards of patient safety. Our collaboration with NIB Noida has been instrumental in
bringing together leading experts and practitioners to share knowledge and drive improvements in hemovigilance.”

As a part of ongoing best Transfusion practices, the Department of Transfusion Medicine has initiated the concept of a Hemovigilance Nurse and trained Ms. Monika Rohilla, Nursing Officer, Department of Transfusion Medicine, for the same role. AIIMS Jammu has also established the Hospital Transfusion Committee with members from all the Clinical Blood user departments and the policy- making administrators for effective patient care.

Dr. Akanksha Bisht, Head of the Hemovigilance Program, also emphasized the importance of the collaboration, saying, “Our joint efforts with AIIMS Jammu highlight the critical role of ongoing education and shared expertise in enhancing hemovigilance practices. We are proud to contribute to this vital field and support the professional development of those involved in blood transfusion.”

The successful completion of this CME marks a significant step forward in the field of transfusion medicine, reinforcing the commitment of AIIMS, Jammu and NIB, Noida in improving the patient safety and the quality of blood transfusion services for the patients coming to AIIMS, Jammu.