Healthcare workers' perceptions of targeted institutional strategies to improve Autologous Blood Donation awareness and practice in a Tertiary Healthcare Facility in Northeastern Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Autologous blood donation (ABD) is an evidence-based strategy that minimizes exposure to allogeneic transfusions and associated risks. Despite its clinical benefits, ABD remains underutilized in low-resource settings such as northeastern Nigeria, where institutional support is limited. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are critical for policy advocacy, patient education, and operationalizing transfusion practices. Understanding their perceptions of targeted institutional strategies is essential for enhancing ABD uptake. This study assessed healthcare workers' perceptions of targeted institutional strategies to improve ABD awareness and practice in a tertiary hospital.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in August 2025 at FUHSTHA, Nigeria, among 237 HCWs, doctors 59 (24.9%), medical laboratory scientists 16 (6.8%), and nurses/midwives 162 (68.3%) using a validated questionnaire (Cronbach's α = 0.7). Data were analyzed with SPSS 26, employing chi-square tests to examine associations (p ≤ 0.05). Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained.

Results: Cadre was significantly associated with support for in-service training (χ²(6)=15.08, p=0.020, V=0.178), formal ABD policy (χ²(10)=19.63, p=0.033, V=0.204), patient awareness campaigns (χ²(10)=23.48, p=0.009, V=0.223), departmental ABD champions (χ²(6)=16.51, p=0.011, V=0.187), inclusion in standard surgical care (χ²(6)=24.30, p<0.001, V=0.226), and institutional support preferences (χ²(30)=69.65, p<0.001, V=0.383). Collaborative decision-making (p=0.223) and personal willingness to participate (p=0.698) were not significant. Effect sizes were weak to moderate, suggesting broad support across cadres with modest differences.

Conclusion: Healthcare workers in this tertiary facility support structured governance, training, coordination, and audit to improve ABD practice, emphasizing a comprehensive institutional approach over financial incentives.