Purpose Our aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of two different dosing regimens of human recombinant erythropoietin (rHu-EPO) for preoperative autologous blood collection in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). Methods Prospective randomised trials in which erythropoietin 15,000 IU was administered intravenously twice a week or 30,000 IU once a week (total 90,000 IU) combined with ferrous II sulphate (Ferro-Gradumet 2) orally and compared with Ferro-Gradumet 2 alone. Results Although different dosing regimens of rHu-EPO administration during preoperative autologous blood donation have similar effects on the collection of two units of autologous blood, preoperative haemoglobin level and perioperative allogenic blood transfusion, a once weekly dose regimen of rHu-EPO was more convenient (although not statistically significantly) for patients. Conclusion We recommend the more practical and comfortable but yet highly effective therapeutic regimen with a single weekly intravenous administration of rHu-EPO for patients scheduled for THA.

especially the plan A nerve blocks recommended in the training curriculum. We incorporated various teaching methods and materials including a pre-session two-page information sheet, relevant video links and live scanning practice. Results We collected feedback using 5-point Likert scales. 77.2% found the pre-session materials helpful and 95.4% found the practical session useful, scoring >3 out of 5.Prior to the sessions, 90.6% did not feel confident in performing regional anaesthesia. After the sessions, 81.8% of the participants felt more confident, scoring 3 out of 5, and will consider performing regional anaesthesia in their clinical practice. Conclusions Regular exposure at local departmental teachings using various teaching methods allows anaesthetists at all levels of training to become more confident in integrating these techniques into clinical practice. We hope to cultivate interest in this area among anaesthetists in our department, moving away from a niche subspecialty to a core component of anaesthetic care, available to all [1].