What happens in a blood donation camp? Will I be paid for my blood? | Jc Dr A Tamizha Karthic

 What happens in a blood donation camp?

§  There may or may not be a queue for registration. Don’t walk away if you see a queue. have patience till your turn comes.

§  After the registration, your blood will be tested for haemoglobin count. For this, a small amount of blood will be taken from the tip of your finger.

§  Once your blood is approved, you will be quickly checked up for your blood pressure, weight and your medical history.

§  Some questions may turn out to be very personal. Do not get offended if they ask you about your sex life or menstrual dates. It is to ensure the safety of both the donor an the receiver.

§  The blood is tested for various five diseases: Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV, malaria and Syphilis.

§  Once you are approved for blood donation, your signature will be required on the consent form, which is usually printed behind the same blood donor questionnaire form. The doctor who checked you will also sign it.

§  From here you will be headed to your bed. Follow the instruction of the doctor or nurse. Lie down straight on your back and relax.

§  Be ready for a small sting on your hand when the syringe meets your nerve. Sometimes you will be given a soft ball to press, to facilitate easy flow of blood into the bottle.

§  Ensure you have a warm clothes, as your body temperature might fall due to loss of blood.

§  If you feel any kind of stiffness in your hand or body, call your doctor. It is not necessary to fill the bottle completely.

§  After completion of whole process, wait for the refreshment and final nod from the doctor that says, “Yes, you are fit to go.”

Will I be paid for my blood?

No. Professional blood donation was banned years ago in 1998. However, like all other acts, it was also flouted. National Blood Transfusion Services Act 2007 proposed by Union Health Ministry, demanded the professional donors (donors who donate for money) to be imprisoned for three months with a hefty fine.

So donating blood is a voluntary affair. If you wish to donate, you can donate blood but if not then no one can force, not even a doctor. You will not be paid for the blood under any circumstance.