NEWARK, N.J. — University Hospital in Newark has launched an ambulance-based whole blood transfusion program designed to improve outcomes for critically injured patients with its hospital EMS service.
The initiative enables specially trained paramedics to administer whole blood en route to the hospital, dramatically increasing survival chances for patients suffering from severe blood loss, University Hospital stated in a press release.
“Hemorrhage is the leading cause of preventable trauma deaths, with nearly half of the fatalities occurring before patients reach the hospital — some within just five minutes,” University Hospital Assistant EMS Medical Director and Rutgers New Jersey Medical School Assistant Professor Dr. Scott Pasichow said. “Providing blood transfusions directly in ambulances at the point of care can help address critical blood loss and stabilize patients until they can reach the hospital for further treatment.”
University Hospital’s whole blood program uses specialized, temperature-controlled carriers to maintain the safety and integrity of blood products during transport. EMS, trauma and emergency staff have completed training to ensure they can deliver this advanced care effectively.
