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154 Standalone Chapters 2020 | NMH Annual Rep t testing needs, patients and staff, for the 2 hospitals. Using agreed algorithms swabs are analysed from all in patients and prior to planned surgery via pre assessment clinics. In addition, the use of a single swab for microbiology improved workflows in clinical and laboratory areas. Surveillance reports for MRSA colonisation, rectal screening, influenza rates and blood stream infections are provided to guide infection control. Daily reporting of Sars-CoV-2 testing and infection rates is supplied to the HSE. Successes and Achievements • Relocation and reverification of equipment after delivery suite building works • Verification of antibiotic susceptibility testing for resistant organisms • Implementation of EUCAST 2020 breakpoints • Verification and introduction of Sars-CoV-2 testing on 3 platforms using 4 assay configurations. • Interfacing of both GeneXpert and AUS Diagnostic platforms to LIMS. • Verification of Maldi-TOFF analyser for rapid identification of microbes. Plans for 2021 • Seek accreditation for molecular testing on the GeneXpert platform • Seek accreditation for the Maldi-TOFF • Verify the Film Array • Expand the molecular testing repertoire on the AUS Diagnostics HAEMOVIGILANCE The main aim of Haemovigilance is to promote safe transfusion practice in our hospital. The haemovigilance service participates within the overall Laboratory Quality Management system. It undergoes annual inspection and is accredited by the Irish National Accreditation Board. Successes and Achievements 2020 • INAB Accreditation achieved – ISO 15189 • 100% Traceability of blood components and products • European Blood Directive 2002/98/EC The Directive governs the activities of Blood Transfusion Service and Hospital Blood Banks (Blood Transfusion Dept. and Haemovigilance Dept.) in all EU member states: 16 (Mandatory and non mandatory) reports were sent to National Haemovigilance Office • Haemovigilance Education review in light of the COVID-19 Pandemic Changes to delivery of education for clinical staff in 2020 from face-to-face to on line was successfully implemented by: - Use of on line E-Learning system "Totara" for NCHD Induction - Use of Blood Transfusion E-Learning (learnprouk) system was introduced for Midwifery/Nursing staff and also for Midwifery Students - No change to method of delivery of Haemovigilance education to other staff groups (MCA/Portering staff) Plans for 2021 - Various policies to be reviewed/written and updated - Maintain current Haemovigilance service - To maintain ISO15189 (INAB Accreditation) - To participate in the National Transfusion Advisory Committee (NTAG) working groups (Patient Blood Management, Life threatening Haemorrhage, Neonatal Components, Regional Transfusion Committees) - To promote the appropriate use of blood and blood products and implement the new NTAG guidelines as they become available - Continue to monitor transfusion practice - Education of staff