Abstract: AIM AND BACKGROUND: Donor notification and counseling are critical components of a safe and ethical blood transfusion system. This study highlights the need to strengthen donor follow-up to ensure timely communication and care. By improving response rates, we not only protect recipients but also empower donors with vital health information. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective, record-based study was conducted in the Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion at Pt. B. D. Sharma Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Rohtak, over a period of 2 years. A total of 81,909 donors were registered, of whom 76,682 were found eligible. As part of routine blood bank practice, each donor had undergone medical screening, counseling, and transfusion-transmitted infection(s) (TTIs) awareness. All collected blood units were routinely tested for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), HCV, syphilis, and malaria using standard methods. Donors with reactive screening results were notified up to three times at weekly intervals as per standard protocol. RESULTS: Among the 81,909 individuals who registered for blood donation, 76,682 were found eligible to donate. Out of these eligible donors, 2475 (3.22%) tested reactive for transfusion-transmitted infection(s) (TTIs). Hepatitis C had the highest prevalence (1.28%), followed by hepatitis B (1.03%), syphilis (0.58%), and HIV I and II (0.32%). The majority of reactive cases were reported in male donors, with the highest number observed in the 26–30-year age group. Approximately 84% of the reactive donors responded to notification. CONCLUSION: Our study highlights that a structured protocol of three telephonic notifications at weekly intervals, implemented as part of routine practice, achieved a high response rate of 83.51%. Notifying reactive donors is not merely procedural but an opportunity to support, inform, and protect, guided by awareness, trust, and empathy.
Abstract: A rare fibrin band formation was observed in a whole blood bag at the packed cell-plasma interface from a healthy first-time donor. Root Cause Analysis of this case was performed. Donor’s laboratory investigation, consumable-related factors, environmental factors, procedure related factors and detailed evaluation of the fibrin band was also done to reach a conclusion. The blood unit was discarded in view of the compromised quality of the components.
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Leukoreduction plays a critical role in improving the safety and efficacy of blood transfusions by minimizing transfusion-related complications and transmission of leukotropic viruses. The study explores the development of an in-house leukofilter employing CD45-conjugated iron oxide nanoparticles to magnetically separate leukocytes as an alternative to conventional methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A quasi-experimental study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital from September 2024 to January 2025 involving 20 packed red blood cell (PRBC) units. Iron oxide nanoparticles, synthesized using pomegranate extract, were coated with bovine serum albumin and conjugated with CD45 monoclonal antibodies using 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide – n-hydroxysuccinimide chemistry. To it, a PRBC aliquot was incubated and subjected to magnetic separation. Pre- and postfiltration samples were analyzed at day 0, 14, and 28. The statistical analysis was performed using Jamovi-package of R software V14.03. A paired t -test was done to look for statistical significance. RESULTS: The mean prefiltration and postfiltration leukocyte count were 14.55 × 10 9 /L and 0.0645 × 10 9 /L (0.05 × 10 9 /L-0.08 × 10 9 /L), respectively, demonstrating an efficient and statistically significant leukoreduction of 2.35 log reduction. Red cell parameters, including hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cell count, were well preserved with 0.03% hemolysis (<0.8%), and no significant changes in lactate dehydrogenase or potassium levels. Blood cultures at day 14 showed no growth, confirming that the method adheres to clinical quality standards. CONCLUSION: This innovative leukoreduction technique demonstrates effective leukocyte removal while preserving RBC integrity throughout the storage period, presenting a viable alternative for transfusion practices with potential clinical applicability in transfusion medicine.
Abstract: OBJECTIVES: A sustainable blood supply depends on strong relationships between blood banks and donors. In the digital era, social media platforms offer a powerful way to foster these connections. This study presents a hospital blood bank’s experience using platform X to engage with donors and the public. METHODS: All direct messages (DMs) received via X from May 2018 to May 2023 were analyzed and categorized. The key focus areas were access to donor profiles, medical questions, blood bank operations, mobile application-related, and general questions that did not require access to personalized data. RESULTS: A total of 525 DMs were reviewed. Despite publicly available details, many users inquired about location and operating hours. Other queries involved donor eligibility (11.2%), donation procedures (12.0%), and logistics (17.2%). Around half of interactions could have been addressed through automated responses. However, queries about donor record (4.8%) and screening test results (3.1%) required human oversight due to privacy concerns. CONCLUSION: Social media is a valuable tool for blood donor engagement, but it presents challenges in privacy, responsiveness, and handling sensitive data. Based on this 5-year experience, we share an outline for policies and procedures that blood banks may adopt for operating social media accounts. We recommend automation and strong data protection measures to optimize the role of social media in blood donor communication.
Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Red cell alloimmunization poses a significant challenge in transfusion medicine due to its potential to cause hemolytic transfusion reactions and complications in patient care. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, distribution, and specificities of red cell alloantibodies among healthy volunteer blood donors in Northwestern India. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted from January 2016 to December 2023. Data from healthy volunteer blood donors were analyzed to assess trends in donor demographics, blood group distribution, and antibody screening outcomes. Blood samples were screened for antibodies using appropriate methods and technology and donors were subjected to antibody identification when necessary. RESULTS: The total number of donors decreased from 2016 to 2020, with a subsequent recovery in 2021–2023. Male donors consistently outnumbered female donors across all years. Blood group B + and O + were the most common, while the Bombay blood group remained rare. The prevalence of red cell alloimmunization was relatively low, with Anti-M being the most frequently identified alloantibody. Other specificities, such as Anti-K, Anti-D, and Anti-E, were also detected. CONCLUSION: The study highlights the importance of continuous monitoring and vigilance in red cell alloimmunization rates among blood donors to inform transfusion strategies and improve donor selection protocols. Understanding the prevalence and specificities of alloantibodies can lead to targeted interventions for enhancing transfusion safety and patient outcomes. Continued research and collaboration are essential for advancing transfusion medicine and providing safe, effective blood products.
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Dengue is a vector-borne disease caused by four different serotypes (dengue virus [DENV] 1–4) of the DENV. These viruses are transmitted to humans primarily through the bite of infected female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Apart from vector transmission of DENV, blood transfusion could be of significance in transmitting the virus from a blood donor to a healthy individual. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of dengue immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies and NS1 antigen among asymptomatic healthy blood donors attending the blood center of a tertiary care hospital in Southern Odisha. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted by the Viral Research Diagnostic Laboratory and Blood Center of Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati Medical College, Berhampur, Odisha. The samples were collected from the asymptomatic blood donors as per the guidelines. All collected serum samples were screened for dengue NS1 antigen and dengue IgM antibody using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay techniques. RESULTS: A total of 468 blood samples were collected, of which 466 (99.57%) study participants were men and only 2 (0.42%) study participants were female. It was reported that only 3 (0.64%) donors were positive for anti-dengue IgM antibody, whereas all the samples were negative for dengue NS1 antigen. CONCLUSION: Testing of circulating DENV in healthy blood donors during blood donation is essential since transmission of dengue from blood transfusion is possible. All tested blood samples should be seronegative for anti-dengue IgM antibody and dengue NS1 antigen. This will allow ruling out the most probably acute dengue infection during blood transfusion.
Abstract: Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a rare but potentially fatal hematological emergency. It is characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, neurological symptoms, renal dysfunction, and fever, which is most often associated with severe ADAMTS13 deficiency. Pregnancy and the postpartum period are well-recognized precipitating states for TTP, posing diagnostic challenges due to overlapping features with other thrombotic microangiopathies such as preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome. We reported a case of postpartum TTP that was initially responsive to therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) but relapsed within days, ultimately requiring reinduction of TPE in combination with corticosteroids. This case highlights the importance of early recognition, prompt treatment, and the role of adjunctive immunosuppression in preventing relapses. It also underscores the need for vigilance in postpartum follow-up and the practical value of tapering plasma exchange sessions.
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Cryoprecipitate, rich in fibrinogen, factor VIII (FVIII), and von Willebrand factor (VWF), is used to manage bleeding in trauma and coagulopathy. Current guidelines require cryoprecipitate to be transfused within 4–6 h of thawing, limiting availability in emergency situations and increasing wastage. This study assesses the stability of coagulation factors and sterility in thawed cryoprecipitate stored at room temperature (20°C–24°C) for up to 5 days. METHODS: This prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital. Cryoprecipitate was prepared from fresh frozen plasma stored at −80°C and pooled into 10 units (four from blood groups A and B and two from blood group O). Samples were analyzed on days 0, 3, and 5 postthawing for fibrinogen activity, FVIII, and VWF activity levels. Sterility was evaluated using the BacT/Alert system at 0 and 120 h. Statistical analyses included paired t -tests and ANOVA. RESULTS: There was no significant decrease in fibrinogen levels (mg/unit) between day 0 (250.5 ± 25.8) and day 3 (238.34 ± 29.61, P = 0.07) and to day 5 (226.51 ± 28.39, P = 0.62), all units maintained above the 150 mg/unit threshold. Similarly, there was no significant reduction in VWF levels (IU/unit) as well, between day 0 (218.50 ± 45.56) to day 3 (201.84 ± 41.91, P = 0.06) and to day 5 (180.62 ± 38.77, P = 0.13). However, FVIII activity significantly declined by 21.88 IU/unit from 113.70 ± 20.91 IU/unit to 91.82 ± 16.36 IU/unit, P = 0.001 from day 0 to day 3 and also declined by 9.57 IU/unit to 82.25 ± 14.91, P = 0.001 from day 3 to day 5 with only 60% of units maintaining ≥80 IU/unit. Sterility was maintained with no bacterial growth observed. CONCLUSIONS: Thawed cryoprecipitate can retain adequate fibrinogen and VWF levels for up to 5 days, although FVIII declines significantly, particularly in group O pools. Extended storage at room temperature may reduce wastage and improve availability in emergencies, particularly as a source of fibrinogen.
Abstract: This case report shows a rare occurrence of hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn caused by anti-Fy(a) antibodies in a RhD-negative pregnant woman. Although the indirect Coombs test (ICT) was positive, initial screening did not detect the specific antibody, as routine follow-up often focuses only on anti-D. Crossmatch incompatibility during preoperative blood preparation led to extended antibody screening, which identified anti-Fy(a) antibodies. All the RhD-negative units (a total of 13) were found incompatible. O-negative Fya-negative individuals were searched from rare donor registry and their blood became compatible. The mother delivered twins via elective cesarean section, both of whom showed signs of hemolysis and jaundice, with positive direct Coombs tests and elevated bilirubin levels. Duffy phenotyping confirmed the presence of Fy(a) antigen on the neonate’s red blood cells. Both infants recovered following phototherapy. This case emphasizes the need for broader antibody screening beyond anti-D in ICT-positive pregnancies to detect clinically significant non-D antibodies and prevent avoidable neonatal complications.
Abstract: Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare but detrimental effect of dengue. It may be primary or secondary in nature. The uncontrolled proliferation of the histiocytes and activated lymphocytes paves the way for the cytokine storm, thereby contributing to the fatality of the disease. Dengue-associated HLH should be considered for all cases of severe dengue in addition to the clinical criteria. In order to mitigate such high mortality, it is only peremptory to perform early intervention following the early identification of the condition. As per the american society for apheresis (ASFA 2023), therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) plays a supportive role in the management of HLH to stabilize the organ functions. It is a Category III Grade 2C recommendation. It acts as an adjunct to the immunosuppressive and cytotoxic drugs such as steroids, intravenous immunoglobulin or cyclosporines, and etoposide. There is limited but supportive evidence with respect to the management of secondary HLH with TPE. We present a case report of dengue-associated secondary HLH managed in our hospital with the help of TPE.
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (NAIT) results due to the human platelet antigen (HPA) incompatibility between the mother and the fetus, which in turn leads to maternal alloimmunization against fetal platelet antigen. In view of the lack of a defined protocol for its diagnosis and management, it is important to identify at-risk patients with the help of new noninvasive methods and prevent fetal complications. AIM: The aim of our study was to evaluate the suspected cases of NAIT so as to determine its prevalence and formulate an appropriate algorithm for its diagnosis and management in our setup. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thrombocytopenic neonates from neonatal services were included in the study between May 2018 and March 2020. An algorithm was designed to evaluate the suspected cases of NAIT, which involved the clinical assessment of the neonate and maternal HPA antibody screening and compatibility test with the neonatal platelet antigens by maternal serum on a solid phase red cell adherence assay system by Immucor, Norcoss A, USA. In addition, genotypic analysis was done to find out the implicated HPA antigens present in the neonate, causing NAIT. The genotypic assessment was done using the Link Seq HPA Typing Kit, by One Lambda, and real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: Out of 6237 neonates screened for eligibility, we found 1143 neonates to be thrombocytopenic. Out of 1143 thrombocytopenic neonates, we diagnosed NAIT in 10 neonates, giving a prevalence of 0.8% in thrombocytopenic neonates and 0.16% in the total enrolled neonates. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of NAIT in neonates with thrombocytopenia was 0.8%, and 0.16% in the total admitted neonates. HPA-3b, Hpa-9b and HPA-15b were found to be the most commonly implicated antigens leading to thrombocytopenia in the neonates, in our population
Abstract: Internal quality control (IQC) is highly important and burning need for all laboratory settings involved in clinical analysis, diagnostics, biochemical analysis and analytical laboratory, etc. External Quality Assurance Scheme and IQC form the foundation of quality assessment during the analytical phase and serve as a key pillar in the broader framework of a laboratory’s Quality Management System. The International Organization for Standardization/International Electrotechnical Commission (ISO/IEC) 17025 standard emphasizes that the laboratory shall have quality control procedures for monitoring the validity of tests undertaken. The obtaining data shall be recorded in such a way that trends are detectable and within the prescribed range. The monitoring shall include regular use of IQC. IQC performance is typically evaluated using tools such as Levey–Jennings (LJ) charts and Westgard rules (WRs). These tools help laboratories monitor the accuracy, reproducibility, and precision of their analytical methods, instruments, and reagents. LJ charts visualize whether results fall within the acceptable control limits, while WRs offer a statistical approach to detecting systematic and random errors. When results deviate from expected norms, these tools trigger corrective actions to prevent the reporting of inaccurate data. In the current study, plasma samples reactive for human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis C virus, and hepatitis B virus were utilized as IQC materials. These were analysed continuously for 20-day period. The signal-to-cutoff (S/Co) ratios were calculated, recorded, and then plotted using LJ charts. WRs were subsequently applied to assess performance trends and identify any potential deviations. The primary objective of this study is to reinforce the importance and implementation of IQC in any laboratory involved in clinical, medical, biochemical, or analytical testing. Establishing a strong IQC practice is not only vital for regulatory compliance but also indispensable for ensuring the delivery of accurate, consistent, and high-quality test results.
Abstract: CONTEXT: Platelet transfusion is vital for managing thrombocytopenia, especially in patients with hematological malignancies, anemia, chronic diseases, and postsurgical complications. AIMS: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of random donor platelets (RDPs) and single donor platelets (SDPs) using corrected count increment (CCI) and percent platelet recovery (PPR) as key parameters. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: A prospective comparative study was conducted in the Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion at Government Medical College, Jammu, over 1 year (August 2023–July 2024). SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Sixty platelet transfusions (30 RDP, 30 SDP) were analyzed. Pre- and post-transfusion platelet counts were recorded at 1 and 24 h, and CCI and PPR were calculated. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Statistical significance was assessed using a t -test with P < 0.05 considered significant. RESULTS: The mean platelet increment at 1 h was 21,190 ± 4636.57/μL for RDP and 23,236.67 ± 4453.39/μL for SDP ( P = 0.86). At 24 h, the increment dropped to 10,950 ± 3290.71/μL (RDP) and 11,703.33 ± 3148.01/μL (SDP) ( P = 0.369). The mean 1-h CCI was 9219.88 ± 2950.74 for RDP and 10,079.60 ± 2740.26 for SDP ( P = 0.247), which declined at 24 h to 4935.23 ± 1633.56 (RDP) and 5062.37 ± 1608.93 (SDP) ( P = 0.762). The 1-h PPR was 24.09% ± 6.29% (RDP) versus 25.17% ± 7.43% (SDP) ( P = 0.547), which dropped at 24 h to 12.47% ± 4.24% (RDP) and 12.65% ± 4.31% (SDP) ( P = 0.888). CONCLUSIONS: RDP and SDP transfusions demonstrated comparable efficacy in terms of platelet increment and recovery. Despite slightly higher responses with SDP, the differences were not statistically significant.
Abstract: The HbSD is a double heterozygous variant of sickle cell disease (SCD) presenting with a combination of sickle hemoglobin (HbS) and hemoglobin D Punjab (HbD). The homozygous HbD is associated with mild conditions. In contrast, homozygous sickle cell disease (HbSS) presents with severe forms of SCD, like stroke and acute chest syndrome. Occasionally, HbS in the heterozygous state with HbD presents with severe vaso-occlusive complications. Red cell exchange (RCE) is a category I indication in sickle cell patients to prevent and treat stroke, and it improves the rheology by reducing the HBS percentage. Herein, we report a 23-year-old male HbSD patient with a basilar artery stroke. The patient’s pre-procedure HbSD was 71.5% and reduced to 29.5% post-RCE procedure. The patient was on mechanical ventilation at the time of the procedure and had shown a dramatic response with 98% SPO2 on room air after the RCE.
Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Anti-glomerular basement membrane (anti-GBM) disease is an uncommon, autoimmune disease in which IgG antibodies bind to intrinsic antigens distributed along the length of glomerular basement membrane. It is characterized by rapid and progressive loss of renal function. The rationale of management is to suppress renal inflammation and production of autoantibodies (with immunosuppression), as well as removal of circulating pathogenic autoantibodies (with therapeutic plasma exchange [TPE]). However, there is a paucity of data on the role of TPE in the management of anti-GBM cases worldwide. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three consecutive anti-GBM patients were admitted with common complaints of high-grade fever, chills, hematuria, and low urine output. In view of decreased renal function and strong suspicion of anti-GBM disease, the treatment protocol was initiated in accordance with the international Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes guidelines. RESULTS: All three patients had crescentic glomerulonephritis (crescents in more >80% glomeruli) on renal biopsy. Management was initiated with TPE and immunosuppression (methylprednisolone) and cytotoxic drug (cyclophosphamide). TPE was done until the anti-GBM antibody titer dropped to <10. Case 1 underwent TPE daily (12 sessions), and case 2 and case 3 underwent 14 and 9 sessions, respectively, of TPE alternating with dialysis. Renal function improved in cases 1 and 2, and routine dialysis was discontinued. Case 3 showed improvement initially until TPE was done; however, the disease progressed to end-stage renal disease, and the patient remains dialysis dependent. None of the patients had adverse reactions during TPE. CONCLUSION: TPE is an effective and safe conjunct in the treatment of anti-GBM disease as shown by complete reversal in two cases and partial response in the third patient.
Abstract: The Cromer blood group system antigens, carried on the GPI-linked decay-accelerating factor glycoprotein, decay accelerating factor (or CD55) are encoded by the CD55 gene. The International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT) currently recognises 20 Cromer antigens and antibodies to Cromer system antigens have been associated with hemolytic transfusion reactions. This is the report of a novel antigen in this system (later named CRIB by the Working Party of Red Cell Immunogenetics and Blood Group Terminology, ISBT) identified in a South Indian patient by a combined effort from her referral center, the South Indian Advanced Immunohematological Reference Laboratory her samples were sent to and the International Reference Laboratory the samples were finally forwarded to.
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Blood transfusion is widely used to manage anemia, but excessive blood ordering contributes to financial loss, higher hospital costs, and avoidable transfusion risks. Although the maximum surgical blood ordering schedules (MSBOSs) aim to optimize utilization, overordering remains common in surgical practice. AIMS: This study evaluates the crossmatch-to-transfusion (C: T) ratio among surgical patients and identifies demographic and clinical factors such as gender, age, admission type, comorbidities, hemoglobin on admission, and estimated blood loss that influence crossmatch requests and transfusion. It also examines outcomes, including hospital stay, rebleeding, readmission, discharge hemoglobin, and mortality between transfused and nontransfused patients. METHODOLOGY: A retrospective, cross-sectional study, noninterventional study was conducted at Hospital Raja Perempuan Zainab II using records of 419 patient’s data from January until December 2022. Systematic sampling was applied, and data were extracted from patient’s medical record, transfusion request forms, and the blood bank information system. Descriptive and multivariate analyses assessed demographics and clinical factors, whereas binary logistic regression identified predictors of transfusion outcomes. RESULTS: Of crossmatch requests, 52.3% were from male patients and 50.8% from those >60 years. The overall C: T ratio was 1.42. Significant associations with transfusion ( P < 0.001) included age >60, emergency admission, and admission hemoglobin of 7–10 g/dL. Transfused patients had higher rebleeding rates ( P = 0.05), longer hospital stays (~12 days), lower discharge hemoglobin (8.85 g/dL), and higher mortality, but no significant difference in readmissions. CONCLUSION: The study demonstrates relatively appropriate blood use with a C: T ratio of 1.42, but highlights the need for further optimization. Elderly males and emergency cases were more likely to require transfusion. Outcomes suggest that transfusion alone does not improve prognosis without addressing underlying risks. Strengthening adherence to MSBOS and implementing structured patient blood management may reduce unnecessary crossmatching and enhance surgical care.
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Syphilis remains a critical transfusion-transmitted infection of concern, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Accurate detection among blood donors is essential to ensure transfusion safety. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the diagnostic performance of three commonly used syphilis screening methods: Treponema pallidum hemagglutination assay (TPHA), chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA), and rapid plasma reagin (RPR) in a tertiary care blood center in Eastern India. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional observational study screened 27,844 blood donations collected between January 2022 and December 2023. Samples were tested using the TPHA rapid card, CLIA, and RPR. Diagnostic performance parameters, including sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, accuracy, and Cohen’s kappa, were calculated using CLIA as the reference standard. External quality assessment scheme (EQAS) samples were also evaluated to assess test concordance. RESULTS: Overall syphilis reactivity was 0.28% by TPHA, 0.27% by CLIA, and 0.09% by RPR. TPHA demonstrated 100% sensitivity, 99.99% specificity, and almost perfect agreement with CLIA (κ =0.97). RPR showed lower sensitivity (34.67%) with 100% specificity and moderate agreement (κ =0.47). EQAS concordance was 100% for TPHA and CLIA, and 98% for RPR. Higher reactivity was observed among male, first-time, and replacement donors, particularly from lower socioeconomic and urban backgrounds. CONCLUSION: TPHA and CLIA outperformed RPR in syphilis screening, with high diagnostic accuracy and excellent external validation. Incorporation of treponemal assays and participation in EQAS programs are recommended to strengthen transfusion safety and improve donor screening protocols.
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Medical education was affected globally during the COVID-19 pandemic. To limit its effect on postgraduate education in transfusion medicine in India, an educational program was started with periodic assessments. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An educational program was prepared in the form of modules. Program was named as JG Jolly’s online teaching program for postgraduate students, which was delivered as a series of online interactive lectures in form of modules through the Zoom Application. A total of eleven modules were delivered, followed by posttest assessments for modules I-X. For 5 modules VI to X, both pre- and post-test assessments were done; whereas for module XI, only pretest assessment was done. Participants were categorized based on their duration of residency and the type of educational institute. The percentage scores of the participants were calculated and analyzed for the subcategories. RESULTS: Participation included junior and senior residents across various academic institutes. Posttest assessment had significant differences in the percentage scores in modules II, IV, and V among the students of the different educational institute. At the same time, significant differences were noted for modules I and II among the students of the different years of residency. Third-year junior residents obtained the highest marks in all modules except modules II and VI. The difference between posttest versus pretest percentage scores of modules VI to X was positive, with significant differences in modules VII and IX (12.16% and 14.66%, respectively). CONCLUSION: This study evaluated that JG Jolly’s online teaching program successfully maintained students’ academic environment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Multicentric online teaching and assessment is a viable option, especially in the case of a pandemic or disaster.
