Margaret Ann Connaughton

Specialist Medical Scientist

St. Vincent’s University Hospital

Biography

Presentation Title: Patient Blood Management- The Role of the Specialist Medical Scientist

Abstract: 

Patient Blood Management (PBM) has been an International Best Practice for many years.  It is a relatively new concept in Ireland and in its infancy. Most are aware of the three pillars of Patient Blood Management which are underpinned by four key building blocks (1) Auditing, (2) Promotion of Appropriate Use of Blood & Blood Products, (3) Education and (4) Implementation of Initiatives.

In some countries, it has been recognised that the role of a dedicated Patient Blood Management position is key in driving & implementing a PBM culture within Healthcare Establishments.

In 2021, the first Patient Blood Management specialist role was introduced. My presentation will provide an overview of my role as Patient Blood Management Specialist Scientist and how this role works within the Blood Transfusion team in promoting and implementing PBM throughout our organisation.

Speaker Bio:

Margaret Ann Connaughton works in the Blood Transfusion Department in St. Vincent’s University Hospital (SVUH). Having graduated from DIT/TUD in 2007, she worked as a Basic Grade Medical Scientist before progressing to a Senior Medical Scientist position in 2015. During her time in SVUH, Margaret Ann completed her MSc in Transfusion, Transplantation & Tissue Banking through the University of Edinburgh. She has been involved in the number of Quality Improvement projects within the laboratory and clinical setting. One such project was the Provision of a Pre-Hospital Transfusion service between SVUH & WRRR/NAS which support the delivery of Pre-Hospital transfusion to trauma patients in the Wicklow/Dublin area since 2019.

In 2021, Margaret Ann was appointed to a Specialist Scientist role in Patient Blood Management. This role has provided a valuable link between the laboratory and clinical setting. The role has enhanced patient care as well as highlighted the importance of ensuring best International Practice.