Inventory management is essential, the hospital cannot afford a shortage. Doctor Minon takes stock of the reserves several times a day, especially since the shelf life of the various products plays an essential role. “The pads will keep for 5 days. This is where we are most tight, I have to have the right stock for the institution. If I have too many, they may expire”. In contrast, plasma can be frozen and stored for a year at -30°C.
We have blood supplies for 5 days, after that there is nothing left
For the blood, it’s still different “Its lifespan is 42 days, I can keep it for a while in the hospital. But if tomorrow the Red Cross experiences a sharp drop in blood donations, it is clear that we have reserves for 5 days, after that there is nothing left “. The doctor reassures, shortages are very rare, perhaps once a year. When stocks are low, the Red Cross calls for donations and if the situation remains critical, it warns the 300 hospitals which serves “in this case, we can reschedule non-urgent interventions where the risk of bleeding is significant” explains Doctor Minon.
To avoid shortages, hospitals are direct link with the Red Cross. At the Citadelle, deliveries are organized twice a day, at noon and in the evening. In the event of an emergency, specific taxis can deliver pockets to meet the needs of hospitals.
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