Aim: The Lamson pneumatic tube system (PTS) utilises pressure and vacuum suction to transport carriers through a network of pipes from one location to another. The air-flow within the system is generated by blowers which control the speed of the carriers through the pipes. This validation focused on the suitability for the safe and timely transportation of blood components by the PTS from Blood Bank to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and Ambulatory Care Centre (ACC). Validation of a PTS is a National Pathology Accreditation Advisory Council (NPACC) requirement.
Method: Blood components routinely prepared and issued by the Blood Bank were tested. These included packed red blood cells (PRBC), fresh frozen plasma (FFP), extended life plasma (ELP), cryoprecipitate and platelets. The effect of the inherent nature of the PTS on blood components was evaluated as well as appropriate transit time and intended destination. Blood components were subjected to physical and laboratory testing pre and post PTS transportation.
Results: Post transportation, the PTS had no effect on blood components when visually inspected. Transit times and temperatures of the carriers and all blood components were within acceptable ranges. All carriers arrived at their intended destination. There was no significant change in the platelet count or platelet function and the degree of haemolysis in PRBC was below the TGA requirement.
Conclusion: This validation has determined that the Lamson PTS is suitable for the safe and timely transportation of blood components from Blood Bank to ICU and ACC.