The expected LOS does appear to be lower in non-anaemic patients.
However, this was not proven to be statistically significantly when
compared to patients in whom the anaemia was not corrected (IRR = 0.97,
P > 0.05). However, using the same comparison group the
expected LOS is 53% higher in participants whose anaemia was corrected
(IRR = 1.53, P < 0.001).
Site of surgery showed a statistically significant association with the
expected LOS (IRR = 0.9, P = 0.05), which indicates that the expected
LOS was 10% lower among participants who underwent knee surgery
compared to participants who underwent hip surgery. Age was also a
significant predictor of LOS. The expected LOS in patients aged 65 – 75
and > 75 was 13% (P < 0.05) and 45% (P
< 0.001) higher compared to patients aged < 65
years, respectively. Gender showed a statistically significant
association with LOS (IRR = 0.92, P < 0.05) where the expected
LOS was 8% lower in men compared to women. Finally, blood transfusion
significantly predicted a 49% increase in the expected LOS (IRR = 1.49,
P < 0.001).