Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) Executive Director, Dr. Delilah Kimambo, has urged health experts to strictly adhere to both national and international guidelines in the delivery of blood services to ensure patient safety and minimize medical risks.
Speaking in Dar es Salaam yesterday at the opening of a training session on managing complications that may arise during blood transfusion, Dr. Kimambo said doctors, nurses, and laboratory specialists have a duty to understand and follow approved standards to protect patients’ lives.
“It is essential to comply with national and international guidelines in providing blood services. This helps reduce potential risks to patients and safeguards the hospital’s reputation,” she said.
She emphasized that blood transfusion remains a critical service in treating a wide range of conditions, including internal diseases, surgical procedures, safe childbirth, and cancer.
While it saves lives, she noted that patients are still at risk of complications if medical staff fail to follow established protocols.
Dr. Kimambo added that Muhimbili receives daily requests for between 120 and 150 units of blood, underlining the importance of safety and accuracy in transfusion services at the country’s largest referral hospital.