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Harnett EMS launches whole blood transfusion program

LILLINGTON —Harnett County Emergency Medical Services recently announced the launch of its Prehospital Whole Blood Program, becoming only the 17th agency in North Carolina to offer this life-saving intervention in the field. The initiative aims to improve survival rates for patients experiencing severe blood loss by administering whole blood before hospital arrival. This initiative will officially launch in May, aligning with National Trauma Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about injury prevention and trauma care. PROGRAM OVERVIEWThe Prehospital Whole Blood Transfusion Program equips Harnett County EMS supervisors and paramedics with low-titer type O-positive whole blood, which contains red blood cells, plasma, platelets and clotting factors. This comprehensive blood product has been shown to significantly enhance patient outcomes when administered promptly. Harnett County paramedics are trained to assess patients and administer whole blood transfusions in accordance with protocols established by Harnett County EMS Medical Direction, a release states. KEY BENEFITS • Improved Survival Rates: Prehospital Whole Blood has been shown to decrease in-hospital mortality from 29% to 7%. • Reduced Mortality from Hemorrhagic Shock: With an 11% increase in mortality increase for each minute delay in blood administration, it is imperative that these patients receive the most appropriate treatment as early as possible. • Enhanced Trauma Care: Providing whole blood in the prehospital setting has shown more effective resuscitation than traditional fluid methods, stabilizing patients before hospital transport. IMPLEMENTATION AND TRAINING The program officially began May 16. Paramedics will undergo comprehensive training, including hands-on simulations, clinical assessments and familiarization with the equipment and protocols to ensure the safe and effective administration of whole blood.