Inventory management practices in the blood bank of an institute of national importance in India

Background: The demand and supply gap in blood and components has always existed in healthcare facilities. Blood inventory management is crucial to meet the demand and to minimize wastage. This study explores the blood inventory management practices at the blood bank of an institute of national importance in India. Methods: The technicians of the blood bank were interviewed on the practices they followed on blood inventory management and records were reviewed where required. Results: Simple rule of thumb practices, the experience of staff, training, clear policy on stock keeping and allocation, daily stock review, record-keeping, monthly performance review, automation, adoption of information system, regular communications, and leadership emerged as factors contributing to inventory management. Conclusion: The blood bank follows simple procedures and relies on the experience of its staff to manage its inventory. Rigorous training, strict oldest-unit-first-out (OUFO)/first-in-first-out (FIFO) principle for stock management, stringent allocation policy, diligent record-keeping, daily stock review, and monthly performance reports were identified as the key drivers for inventory management. Other measures like regular preventive maintenance of equipment, robust blood bank information system, communication with stakeholders, and effective leadership were found to contribute indirectly to inventory management practices.