Overview

This document, titled 'Operational Guidelines for Blood Transfusion Practice in Nigeria,' is published by the National Blood Service Commission (NBSC) in August 2021. It serves as a comprehensive guideline for blood transfusion services in Nigeria, aiming to standardize practices across the country. The foreword by Dr. E. Osagie Ehanire, the Honourable Minister of Health, highlights the transition from a hospital-based, family replacement donor system to a centralized service relying on regular, voluntary, non-remunerated blood donors. The guidelines are based on the National Blood Policy launched in September 2016 and are intended to ensure quality, safety, and coordination in blood transfusion. The document acknowledges the diverse resources across regions and sets minimally acceptable performance requirements for all blood transfusion centers, including NBSC outlets and hospital blood banks. It was originally drafted in 2006 and revised in 2021 by the Expert Committee on National Blood Safety Standards for Blood Establishments, incorporating updates in blood transfusion science. The guidelines aim to support the National Health Act 2014 and the National Blood Service Commission Act 2021, providing detailed procedures for clinical, laboratory, and other personnel involved in blood services.

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