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