Hospital meets ‘Using Blood Wisely’ national transfusion benchmarks
SARNIA & PETROLIA – May 25, 2021 – Bluewater Health has been recognized for achieving national benchmarks for red blood cell transfusions. This formal recognition of excellence, being declared a Using Blood Wisely hospital, comes from Choosing Wisely Canada and Canadian Blood Services.
“With this designation, we have joined a select group of seven other Ontario hospitals so far making a difference for patients and Canada’s blood supply,” says Deb Croteau, Director, Diagnostic Services. “When every drop counts, the appropriate use of this vital and lifesaving resource is critical to ensure the best possible care for our patients.”
Bluewater Health was one of the first Canadian hospitals to align itself with the successful US Choosing Wisely campaign in 2013. With a strong history of providing quality care, the organization first examined its laboratory and diagnostic imaging testing to introduce Choosing Wisely.
“By ensuring all tests, treatments and procedures, including blood transfusions, are undertaken only when they are of proven benefit in a specific situation, everyone benefits – patients, care providers and the healthcare system as a whole,” says Dr. Charles Winegard, Chair, Bluewater Health’s Choosing Wisely Committee.
Bluewater Health is evaluating the effectiveness of its Choosing Wisely efforts and continues to implement initiatives across the laboratory and medical imaging. It is also identifying other unnecessary testing, treatments or procedures that can be reduced, such as antibiotic use and opioid prescribing, while maintaining its commitment to high quality patient and family-centred care.
ABOUT BLUEWATER HEALTH
Bluewater Health, with locations in Sarnia and Petrolia, cares for the residents of Sarnia-Lambton. With close to 2,500 staff, Professional Staff and volunteers, Bluewater Health provides an array of specialized acute, complex continuing care, allied health and ambulatory care services. Bluewater Health’s Mission is: We create exemplary healthcare experiences with patients and families every time. For more information about Bluewater Health, visit www.bluewaterhealth.ca or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.