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Ministry of Public Health

National Blood Bank

GPHC Compound, Lamaha & East Streets, Georgetown

(592) 223-7182 or (592) 225-4972

Q: Why should I donate blood?

A: Blood is needed all the time to provide to those who may need blood transfusions due to accidents, surgery or diseases of the blood e.g. Sickle Cell Anemia and Thalassaemia.  

Q: What blood types are needed?

All blood types are needed. Blood is divided into several blood types.

A: A+     A-     B+     B-     AB+     AB-     O+     O-

Persons with O negative blood are Universal donors-they can give to anyone: and those with AB positive are universal receivers-they can receive from anyone.

Q: Is there artificial blood?

A: NO. Scientists are yet to find a successful substitute for human blood. This is why blood donors are so vital to the lives of those are in need of blood

Q: Do I have enough blood in my body to donate?

A: Yes. The body contains 10-12 pints of blood. A blood donation is approximately one pint, called a unit of blood.

Q: Will donating blood hurt?

A: You may feel a slight pinch in the beginning, which only lasts a couple of seconds, but there should be no discomfort during the process.

Q: Can I get HIV/AIDS from donating blood?

A: NO. There is no risk of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, or any other diseases through the donation process. Each collection kit is sterile, pre-packaged and used only once.

Q: Is donated blood tested?

A: All donated blood is tested for blood type as well as for infectious diseases such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV, Syphilis, Malaria, Microfilaria, Chagas and HTLV (Human T- Lymphotrophic Virus).                          

Q: Will donating blood interfere with my sex life?

A: NO. Donating blood does not affect your sex life, since there is no relationship between giving blood and your sex drive.

Q: Can I donate blood if I have acold or flu?

A: NO. In order to donate, you must be in generally good health (symptom free)

Q: Can I donate blood if I have High blood pressure?

A: Yes. If your blood pressure is under control and within the limits set in the donation guidelines.

Q: Can I donate blood if I have Diabetes?

A: Diabetics on oral medications are generally accepted as donors.

Q: Can I donate blood if I have Anemia?

A: NO. Your blood count needs to be within the limit set in the donation guidelines. This is currently 12.5.

Q: How can I increase my iron level?

A: You may help increase your iron level by eating foods that are rich in iron such as: red meat, dark green vegetables, and fruits or by taking a multivitamin that contains iron.

Q: Can I donate blood if I have been taking aspirin or medication prescribed by my doctor?

A: Yes. You may donate, but you must provide information on all medications being taken.

Q: Can a woman donate blood during her menstruation?

A: Yes. It is quite safe for a woman to donate blood while having her period. It does not affect her in any way.

Q: How will I feel after I donate?

A: Most people feel great after giving blood. It is advised that you avoid lifting heavy objects or strenuous exercise for the next 24 hours; otherwise you can resume full activity as long as you feel well.

Q: How much time does it take for my body to replace the blood that I donated?

A: Not long at all. The volume of fluids will adjust within a few hours of your donation. The red blood cells will be replaced within a few weeks.

Q: Are blood donors paid?

A: No. Blood donated or transfused in Guyana is given by voluntary blood donors. No one should buy or sell blood

Q: Why are there often blood shortages?

A: Due to unpredictable demands from trauma incidents and other causes. Enough persons are currently not donating voluntarily and regularly.

Q: How long is it until my blood is used?

A: Most blood donations are processed and available for use within 48 to 72 hours.

Q: Where can I donate blood?

A: National Blood Bank, Lamaha Street, Georgetown

     Region 3 Blood Bank, West Demerara Regional Hospital

     Region 2 Blood Bank, Suddie Hospital

     Region 10 Blood bank, Linden Hospital

     Region 6 Blood Bank, New Amsterdam Regional Hospital

     Planned and Organized Blood Drives

Q: What can I do if I’m found to be ineligible to donate blood?

A: You can still support blood donations by becoming a collaborator or a volunteer. The NBTS is always in need of collaborators to organize mobile blood drives and volunteers to assist.

Q: How can I host a blood drive at my work, school or church?

A: Contact the National blood Bank on telephone numbers 223-7182, 225-4972, 669-8776 or 644-9590to find out what is required and make the necessary arrangements for group donations.  

BECOME A VOLUNTARY BLOOD DONOR

EXTEND YOUR LOVE, COMPASSION AND GENEROSITY TO PATIENTS IN NEED OF BLOOD TRANSFUSION, SO THAT THEY CAN HAVE HEALTHIER LIVES OR SAVE THEIR LIVES

The Blood Donation process

Persons are advised to eat at least 1 ½ -2 hours before they donate (eating before donation is optional). Donors are advised to drink 8 ozs of water just before the process starts.

On the day you will be donating blood, the following will take place:

Step 1: Registration of donor

Step 2: You will have a mini-health check to know if you meet the criteria. Your body weight, pulse, blood pressure, temperature and HB (Iron) level will be checked. (2-3 minutes)

Step 3: If you are not deferred in step 2, you will be interviewed to further determine if your health status and sexual activities permit you to be a donor. This session is very private and confidential where YOU will be asked questions about sexual contact. (10-12 minutes)

Step 4: If you meet the criteria in step 3, ONLY then will you be able to donate blood. The actual blood donation will take about 5-8 minutes or less.

Step 5: You will be asked to relax for a further 3-5 minutes and will be given refreshment.

Note: After Donating blood, persons are advised to avoid heavy, muscular or strenuous activities and drink lots of non alcoholic beverages for the rest of the day. 

Requirements to be a blood donor

  1. Persons must be17 years or older ( 16 year olds will need written parental/guardian consent)
  2. Weigh at least 110 pounds
  3. Healthy- not infected or affected with a blood-borne disease.
  4. Must be willing (NOT forced by others) to donate blood. 

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