I noticed the standard has been condensed and the Minimum Retention time is 10 years instead of 5years. If I have files in storage that expire in 2013, do I need to exted that date to 2018?

Thanks

Teresa

I think that any record you still have at the time this new standard comes to your attention should be kept for 10 years. If you are AABB inspected it should have come to your attention before the standards went into effect in Nov. Any other opinions?

I agree. If you've still got it you must now keep it.

I agree. Standards are effective 11/1.

Just as a note: my AABB window is Oct-Dec.

This year, the assessors tried to come in Oct, but were delayed due to hurricane Sandy. They came 11/7. And held us to the NEW standards. It pays to do your homework and be on top! We did okay!

I haven't received my new copy of the 28th edition. Which records does this refer to? Thanks!

I trying to recall off the top of my head but I believe they extended QC record retention and temperature monitoring from 5 to 10 years.

I trying to recall off the top of my head but I believe they extended QC record retention and temperature monitoring from 5 to 10 years.

Standard 5.13.5 in the 27th is Comparison of patient's previous test results for ABO group and Rh type in last 12 months if comparison is not performed electronically. That retention was 5 years however standard 5.13.5.2 for Difficulty in typing, clinically significant antibodies; etc was indefinite. In the 28th edition, 5.13.5 includes reviewing historical records for the following ABORh, difficulty in typing, clinically sig ab, significant adverse event and special transfusion requirements (merging std 5.13.5, 5.13.5.1, and 5.13.5.2 together). The new record retention period was changed in the 28th edition on Nov 1st to 10 years. Hope that helps!

Thanks Joy and welcome to the forum! That makes me feel better because now I know I didn't throw out anything I needed to keep!