We are writing to ask for your help in an international study of factors that influence both pediatric intensivists’ and pediatric neurosurgeons’ decisions to prescribe plasma and platelet transfusions prior to placement of intracranial pressure monitoring. We are asking that all pediatric intensivists (those who have completed PCCM fellowship) participate. (Of note, the American Association of Neurological Surgeons will be distributing to pediatric neurosurgeons.)
Why does this matter? Plasma and platelet transfusions have both been independently associated with morbidities, as well as increased mortality. Therefore, children should not be transfused if not necessary. In a recent systematic review and process of guideline development, no consensus could be reached as to transfusion thresholds amongst a group of 29 experts. We now seek to understand the approach to transfusion in these children by a large group of both pediatric intensivists and pediatric neurosurgeons to help guide future interventional trials and guideline development.
We request you respond as an individual (i.e., not at an institutional level). Participation is voluntary and if you chose to take part your answers will be confidential, and you will not be identified from this questionnaire. Your views on this topic would be very helpful and by responding you will increase the accuracy of the survey results. Completion of the questionnaire should take approximately 10 minutes.
You can reach the survey through the following link: https://redcap.ctsc.weill.cornell.edu/redcap_protocols/surveys/?s=CFT4F8R4FJJN8KAN
We really appreciate your interest in this study. If you have any questions about your participation, please contact Marianne Nellis at man9026@med.cornell.edu or David Bauer at dfbauer@mac.com. We would also be very grateful if you could forward this email to all colleagues who might also be interested in taking part.
Thank you,
Marianne and David
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