Does time matter? An investigation of knowledge and attitudes following blood transfusion training

The Scottish National Blood Transfusion service have developed an educational programme aimed at ensuring a high standard of care for blood transfusions to minimise risk to patients and healthcare practitioners. This paper investigates whether knowledge and understanding of, and attitudes towards, safe practice declined over time following completion of module 1 of the programme. An online survey was administered to a range of healthcare practitioners who had completed the module. The survey tool tested knowledge and ascertained views on blood transfusion practice and perceptions of the module's importance. Comparisons were made between participants 6–8 weeks, 12–14 months and 22–24 months since module completion. In-depth interviews were conducted with a sub-sample of survey respondents to explore attitudes in more detail. Findings indicate evidence of a slight though statistically significant reduction in the degree of emphasis respondents placed on the importance of understanding aspects of transfusions as time lapsed, but no difference was found in knowledge between those who took the course more recently and those who were up to two years post-module. The study's findings indicate that recognition of the importance of safe practice declines over time and thus also suggests that frequent refresher courses are important to maintain safe practice.