Mr Jonathan Newman1
1Aci
Biography:
Jon Newman is a project officer with the ITIM. His work involves improving the trauma system by leading statewide innovative projects. He has a passion for innovation in areas of blood management and other system change by considering how emerging technologies deliver better patient outcomes.
Jon previously worked in various critical care areas, the majority in NSW Ambulance retrieval. He was the clinical lead in the blood management program for the Royal Flying Doctors in Dubbo and the Retrieval Transfusion Procedure (RTP). The RTP is a highly successful collaborative program where blood products are delivered to Helicopter Emergency Medical Service teams caring for patients with critical bleeding, especially in prehospital and remote environments
Abstract:
Traumatic haemorrhage accounts for more than 40% of deaths within the first 24 hours, with the majority of these deaths considered preventable through timely access to appropriate treatment. The “gold standard” for fluid resuscitation involves blood products that closely replicate whole blood, with plasma playing a crucial role. However, many retrieval services face challenges in either having enough plasma or being able to access it at all. This often results in gaps in care, particularly for patients with critical bleeding who require long transfer times.
Recognising these gaps, the Institute of Trauma and Injury Management (ITIM) set out to explore potential solutions. Part of this effort involved investigating emerging technologies, one of which was Freeze-Dried Plasma (FDP). While not a new concept, there has been renewed interest in using FDP in austere environments, such as during patient retrieval.
To understand the viability of FDP as an alternative to Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP), ITIM examined the current evidence and sought to determine whether FDP could serve as a reasonable substitute in trauma care. The Trauma Innovation Committee (TIC) was tasked with reviewing the current literature and providing an evidence-based consensus on this topic. The committee conducted a comparative analysis of FFP and FDP, focusing on mortality rates, safety profiles, and logistical considerations, yielding thought-provoking results.