Abstract:

Background: Blood group serology and cross-matching are essential components of safe blood transfusion practices. Errors in these processes can lead to severe transfusion reactions and compromise patient safety. Despite their importance, knowledge and adherence to safe practices among medical students, residents, and healthcare workers are often inadequate, particularly in developing countries where structured training is limited.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding blood group serology and cross-matching among medical students, residents, and healthcare workers in Ernakulam district, Kerala, South India.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among 118 participants, including undergraduate medical students, residents, and healthcare workers. The survey was administered through Google Forms, and responses were compiled using Google Sheets. The questionnaire consisted of 20 structured questions covering knowledge, attitude, and practice. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and participants were classified into poor, moderate, and good KAP levels.

Results: Out of 118 valid responses, only 28% demonstrated adequate knowledge of blood group serology and cross-matching, while 13% reported being completely unaware. A majority (65%) showed a positive attitude toward safe transfusion practices, but only 45% consistently followed correct procedures. Junior medical students, particularly second-year students, exhibited significantly lower knowledge and practice levels compared to residents and senior students.

Conclusion: The findings highlight a considerable gap between knowledge and practice, despite a generally positive attitude. These results are consistent with other regional and international studies, which also report poor adherence to transfusion safety protocols among students and young healthcare professionals. Strengthening transfusion medicine education in medical curricula, along with regular hands-on training and workshops, is essential to improve competency, reduce errors, and ensure patient safety.

Keywords: Blood group serology, cross-matching, transfusion safety, medical students, residents, healthcare workers, KAP study.