The donation process

Giving blood is simple and it saves lives. When you give blood, it is collected so it can be used to treat someone else. The process is a safe, simple, and rewarding experience that usually only takes 5-15 minutes.

For most people, giving blood is easy and follows the simple steps listed below. This is also illustrated in the chart below.

Before you give blood

• 1. Check you are able to give blood.
• 2. Book on line for a donor appointment, or call toll free on 0800 122 422
• 3. Follow thepreparing to give blood recommendations.
• 4. If you are unable to keep your donation appointment please try and give us at least 3 days' notice.
• 5. Can visit the Uganda Blood Transfusion Service(UBTS) offices Nakasero, Kampala or any of our Regional Blood Banks and donation centres.
• 6. Can also look out for our field sessions near you via our web site www.ubts.ug.go/Where to donate.

When you give blood

This is what will happen when you attend your appointment, or go to a drop-in session, to give blood. If you attend an appointment to give blood we aim to ensure it takes no more than an hour.

1. Welcome and preparation

• When you check in, you will be asked to complete a donor registration form, which includes your name, address, phone number, and various other types of demographic information.
• You will also be asked to show your donor card or the type of identification required by the particular blood bank you visit.
• We will give you 300ml of fluid and a bite just before you give blood. Drinking this over about 5 minutes will help with your well-being during and after donation.

2. Health screening

We make sure it is safe for you to donate, and that your blood donation is safe for a patient to receive.

• We confirm your identity and ask you about the information on your donor health check form; a registered nurse may follow up if necessary.
• We test a drop of blood from your finger to check the iron levels (haemoglobin) in your blood.

If you are not able to donate we will explain why, and may ask you to make another appointment.

If you are able to donate you will be asked to sit in a waiting area until you are called to a donation chair.

3. Your blood donation

When you are comfortable on the chair we will ask you to confirm your name, address and date of birth.

We examine your arm and place a cuff on your arm to maintain a small amount of pressure during donation (this does not measure blood pressure).

We then examine your arm to find a suitable vein and clean it with an antiseptic sponge.

• 1. We will insert a needle in your arm which will collect your blood into a blood bag with your unique donor number.
• 2. You should not feel any discomfort or pain. If you do, tell a member of staff.
• 3. A scale weighs the blood and stops when you have donated 470ml (or just under a pint). This usually takes between 5-15 minutes.
• 4. The needle will be removed and a sterile dressing applied to your arm.

More about what happens on the day when you give blood.

More about what happens after you give blood.

Book to be a blood donor.