A comparative analysis of blood component usage and wastage was performed in the Nukem Blood Bank and Rotary Suzlon Blood Component Center, Haria L. G. Rotary Hospital (Vapi) during 2007 and 2008. Reasons for wastage of blood components and trends for reducing blood component wastage were analyzed. Questions about the reasons for wastage and the methods for reducing such wastage were created to help the staff of the blood bank to improve utilization of blood. The collection and utilization of blood and its components had a tendency to increase from 2007 to 2008. A great degree of variation in the percent wastage was found, particularly in the Rh -ve blood type, leading to increase of non availability as well as discarded due to expiry. The most frequent reason for wastage was breakage and red blood cells (RBC) contamination (for fresh frozen plasma (FFP)) and expiry (for PC and packed red blood cell (pRBCs)). The most encountered reasons for utilization were anemia, thrombocytopenia (especially for platelet concentrate (PC)), surgery, accidental injury and hepatitis (especially FFP). Blood and its components are very important resources due to shortage. A proper inventory management system and up gradation of facilities and training of staff is necessary to ensure optimum utilization and minimize wastage.

Key words: Blood, hematocrit, packed red blood cells, transfusion, Nukem blood bank.