evaluation of a new restricted transfusion protocol in neonates admitted to the nicu

background :although transfusion is a common procedure for treating anemia of prematurity, there is no specific protocol for blood transfusion in premature newborns. so in this study we investigate whether application of a strict protocol has any statistically significant effect on reduction of blood transfusion.   methods : in this study, first group admitted in nicu during 2005 - 2006 and the second group admitted during 2006 - 2007. whereas in the first group the blood transfusion performed based on neonatologists' opinion following consultations with a pediatric hematologist, blood transfusion in the second group was based on the shannon's protocol.   results : during 2005-2006, out of 206 cases, 71 cases (%34.5) underwent blood infusion. during 2006-2007, out of 211 cases, 56 (%26.5) received blood transfusion based on the shannon's strict protocol. although the number of cases decreased, no significant difference was found betweenthe two groups (p=0.07).   conculsion : applying strict criteria alone is not effective in reducing the frequency of transfusion in infants.