Academy
Highlights from the 26th Pakistan Society of Haematology Annual Conference
Hamid Saeed Malik
Institute of Pathology, Pakistan
Rafia Mahmood
Institute of Pathology, Pakistan
Saleem Ahmed Khan
Pakistan Society of Haematology, Pakistan
The Pakistan Society of Haematology's (PSH) 26th Annual Conference, was held from the 1st to the 4th of February 2024, in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, served as a pivotal platform for fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration in the field of haematology in Pakistan.
Ayesha Junaid presenting
With the overarching theme of 'Celebrating advances, building bridges,' the conference aimed to bridge gaps, inspire innovation and propel the field forward. Among the multitude of enriching sessions, the transfusion session on the third day of the conference stood out as a beacon of insights and advancements in the field.
Prior to the main conference, a dynamic pre-conference transfusion workshop was organized, specifically tailored for residents and haematology trainees. This workshop was designed to provide participants with hands-on experience and practical insights into problem-solving scenarios encountered in both the transfusion laboratory and bedside services. Participants embarked on an adventurous journey of learning, engaging in academic sessions, that featured real-life case scenarios. This immersive experience, not only allowed them to actively participate but also included practical sessions aimed at enhancing their proficiency in transfusion medicine. Case discussions further enriched the learning experience, delving into the practical aspects of blood banking. This workshop not only enhanced their academic insights, but also equipped them with invaluable skills and knowledge essential for their professional growth.
On February 3rd, 2024, the transfusion session emerged as a cornerstone event, fostering dialogue, education and collaboration in the dynamic realm of transfusion medicine and blood banking. Supported by ISBT, the event garnered significant attention and participation from professionals across the country. The first session unfolded, featuring talks from distinguished speakers across the country. Fahim Akhtar (Commandant Armed Forces Institute of Transfusion, Rawalpindi) discussed the 'Clinical and lab evaluation of blood transfusion reactions' shedding light on the comprehensive evaluation protocols essential for ensuring patient safety and quality of care. Ayesha Junaid’s discourse on 'Neonatal and paediatric transfusions' addressed the unique challenges in transfusion therapy for vulnerable populations. She is consultant haematologist at Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad, and her talk offered valuable insights into optimizing care for paediatric patients.
Nuzhat Mushahid presenting
Logistics of blood supply in the Netherlands
Muhammad Hassan from Karachi, delved into 'Patient blood management,' advocating for a holistic approach to optimize transfusion practices and improve patient outcomes. Raheel Iftikhar, Consultant clinical haematologist and transplant physician, Armed Forces Bone Marrow Transplant Centre, Rawalpindi, provided practical guidance on 'Indications and Transfusion Thresholds of Blood Products,' emphasizing judicious utilization for optimal clinical benefits. Prof Abdul Naeem's exploration of AI in blood banking practice heralded a new era of innovation and efficiency.
Question and answer session
The second session of the conference pivoted towards quality improvement initiatives and strategies aimed at ensuring a safe and adequate blood supply. Renowned speakers including Nuzhat Mushahid (Consultant Haematologist and Blood Transfusion Specialist) and Saba Jamal (Director Blood Transfusion Services, Indus Hospital, Karachi), alongside two international experts who joined virtually, shared insights into ongoing efforts to enhance quality management practices and uphold rigorous standards in blood banking. Chair of ISBT WP for Haemovigilance, Vitalant, USA, Peter J.M. van den Burg’s discourse on haemovigilance underscored the importance of vigilance and surveillance in safeguarding the transfusion process, while Christian Siedl, Chair ISBT WP for Quality Management, Red Cross, Germany, talked on quality management providing a roadmap for optimizing operational efficiencies and mitigating risks.
The conference also provided a platform for residents to present their original research papers in transfusion medicine and blood banking. This segment facilitated the dissemination of novel findings and stimulated discussions on emerging trends and future directions. With 500 delegates in attendance, including consultants, trainees, nurses, clinicians, and medical lab technologists, the conference fostered vibrant discussions and networking opportunities. Panel discussions generated important decisions and addressed pressing issues, aligning with the vision of the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT) to facilitate knowledge dissemination and serve the interests of donors and patients.
The Transfusion Session of the 26th Annual Haematology Conference, exemplified a commitment to education, innovation and continuous improvement in transfusion medicine. By celebrating achievements, addressing challenges and charting a visionary course for the future, the conference aimed to empower attendees underscoring the collective commitment to elevate transfusion services in Pakistan to new heights of excellence.
