Hackensack University Medical Center has become the first Advanced Life Support provider in New Jersey authorized to administer whole blood transfusions in the field, marking a major advancement in emergency trauma care.
Through a recently expanded Blood Bank license and a regulatory waiver granted by the New Jersey Department of Health, paramedics with Hackensack Meridian Health’s Emergency Medical Services can now carry and administer blood directly at the scene of an emergency or during transport to the hospital.
“This is a game-changer for trauma patients,” said Michelle Kobayashi, MBA, MSN, RN, director of HUMC EMS and Emergency Community Operations. “The ability to deliver blood in the field can drastically improve survival rates during critical moments when seconds matter.”
The move follows the success of HUMC’s air medical blood program launched in 2021 and reflects the growing clinical evidence supporting early intervention in cases of severe hemorrhagic shock. According to EMS leaders, whole blood transfusions help restore blood volume, improve oxygen delivery, support clotting, and stabilize patients en route to care.
“Numerous studies show that administering whole blood at the point of injury reduces prehospital and early hospital mortality,” said Joseph Solda, chief flight nurse and program lead.
The new protocol has already shown results. In one case, paramedics used the pre-hospital blood supply to treat a man with a traumatic abdominal injury. His condition improved visibly in transit, as reported by EMS staff on scene.
“This advancement puts powerful tools in the hands of our paramedics,” said Dr. Lisa Tank, president and chief hospital executive at HUMC. “It’s part of our ongoing commitment to deliver cutting-edge, lifesaving care across the communities we serve.”
Hackensack University Medical Center is part of Hackensack Meridian Health and continues to expand its leadership in trauma care and emergency medical innovation.
