Academy
3-Day professional development and intensive training course on immunohaematology
The Peshawar Regional Blood Centre, in collaboration with the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT), successfully hosted a comprehensive three-day training workshop on 'Immunohaematology.' Held in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, the workshop aimed to advance knowledge and technical expertise in the field of immunohaematology.
The programme featured hands-on training sessions, complemented by lectures, discussions, and individual guidance. Participants included representatives from both public and private blood banks, such as mid-level managers, quality control officers, trainee medical technologists, and postgraduate trainees.
The workshop's technical segment covered a wide array of topics through lectures and practical exercises. Key subjects included Introduction to Immunology, Antigen-Antibody Reactions, Genetics and Biochemistry of the ABO Blood Group System, Genetics of the Rh Blood Group System, Minor Blood Group Systems, Antiglobulin Test, Cross-matching via Gel Card, and Screening and Identification of Allo-Antibodies. Participants were divided into two groups to facilitate hands-on practical training, with demonstrations provided for troubleshooting techniques and resolving blood group discrepancies. Each participant was also given the opportunity to perform at least one procedure in the presence of senior supervisor.
Peshwar Regional Blood Centre
Pre-course vs. Post-course Assessment
One of the primary objectives was to emphasize the importance of routine antibody screening in blood bank laboratories to prevent adverse transfusion reactions. In Pakistan, standardized procedures for red cell antibody detection and identification are not consistently practiced. The partnership between the Peshawar Regional Blood Centre and ISBT ensured access to high-quality educational resources, helping participants enhance their understanding of modern immunohaematology practices. The workshop sought to empower healthcare professionals in blood banking and transfusion medicine, ultimately improving the safety and effectiveness of regional blood transfusion services.
Pictures from throughout the three day course
To evaluate learning outcomes, pre- and post-course assessments were conducted. Participants completed a 35-question multiple-choice test at the start and conclusion of the workshop. Results revealed a notable increase in knowledge, with scores improving from 63.42% pre-course to 78.82% post-course. This significant improvement demonstrated the programme's effectiveness in enhancing participants' competencies. Additionally, the assessments identified areas for further improvement, guiding the refinement of future training initiatives.
The workshop concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Kaleem Ullah Khan, CEO, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Blood Transfusion Authority, who expressed gratitude to the ISBT Academy, participants, and speakers for their contributions. He also commended the organizing team for the event's smooth and professional execution. Souvenirs and certificates were presented to keynote speakers and participants as tokens of appreciation for their dedication and involvement.
An Evaluation Questionnaire was distributed at the end of the workshop to gather feedback and assess the program's effectiveness. Responses were overwhelmingly positive, reflecting participants' satisfaction with the content, delivery, and overall experience. Insights from the evaluation will be used to enhance future capacity-building programmes. The workshop was widely regarded as a success, advancing knowledge-sharing, professional development, and collaboration among attendees and organizers alike.
