Search

Background: Arterial punctures associated with blood donation are uncommon, and characterized by bright red color and rapid blood flow. We wanted to establish the normal range of whole blood unit collection times (CT), with a specific interest in determining the criteria for units with unusually rapid blood flow, thus assisting phlebotomy staff in the recognition of a possible arterial puncture. Methods: Nine blood service regions participated in the study. Each region selected a day during the week of 061200 for determination of the CT for all allogeneic units on that day. Units considered to be not sufficient in quantity, based on a weight <475 grams, were excluded. CT were calculated from the start and end times of phlebotomy, as documented on the blood donation record, and recorded in whole minute increments (min). Results: CT of 4771 units were evaluated. The distribution curve was skewed towards longer collection times, and ranged from 3 to 34 min. Statistical analysis showed that the mode was 6 min, the median was 7 min, and the mean was 7.5 min. CT longer than 11 min are outliers, and CT longer than 14 min are far outliers, as they are at least 2.5 standard deviations longer than the mean. A CT of 3 min is on the border for an outlier on the lower end. None of the phlebotomies were noted to be arterial punctures. Conclusions: The majority (84%) of whole blood unit collections were completed within a 5 to 10 min time interval. Four min collections occurred 3.6% of the time, and are still consistent with venous draws. Three min collections were very unusual, occurring in less than 1/2000 donations. Donors of units collected in less than 4 min have unusually rapid flow, and should be evaluated for other signs of a possible arterial puncture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]