BLOOD DONATION PRACTICE AND RELATED FACTORS AMONG HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS IN THE TRANSFUSION SYSTEM

Abstract

Health care in the field of transfusion hematology occupies an extremely important place in modern medicine. This specialized field aims to ensure safety and efficacy in procedures involving the donation, processing and use of blood and its components. Transfusion hematology (TH) is central to the maintenance of public health and is an indispensable element in the treatment of patients with a variety of medical conditions, including blood disorders, oncological diagnoses, surgical interventions and emergencies. An important role in this process is played by medical professionals, who not only provide efficient and safe health care delivery for blood donors and recipients but can also be active participants in the process as blood donors. Their willingness to donate blood can serve as an example for other members of society, especially for the younger generations. The aim of this study is to investigate and analyze the determinant factors that influence blood donation among healthcare professionals (HPs) working in the field of TH.
The study covers both the personal attitudes and motivations of these professionals towards donating blood, as well as the barriers and incentives that influence their attitudes and behavior. The study employed a direct, individual and anonymous survey among 108 HPs (nurses, medical laboratory assistants and feldshers) working in various structural units of the National Transfusion System, located in the cities of: Sofia, Burgas, Pleven, Sliven, Kyustendil, Blagoevgrad, Vratsa, Lom and Vidin. The study was conducted from October 2022 to March 2024. Data was collected as part of primary and secondary research using sociological and statistical methods for analysis, while findings were presented graphically.
The results obtained from the study have shown that all respondents are women, 58 of them (53.7%) work in different departments of Transfusion Hematology across the country. Most respondents, 75% (81 out of 108), meet the age requirements for donating blood in the country. Overall, respondents’ attitude towards the act of donating blood is positive, most respondents 66 (61.1%) have donated blood in the past. Key factors influencing blood donation practice among medical professionals are age, health status, lack of free time, lack of direct invitation to donate blood; personal and emotional factors, such as helping a loved one, responding to emergencies, desire for social recognition, as well as long professional experience in the medical field.
The research found that health professionals are aware of critical situations where blood is needed and can respond quickly if needed. Their role in the healthcare system makes them more likely to participate voluntarily unpaid in blood donation initiatives. Medical professionals’ main motivation for donating blood is focused on the emotional and social aspect of donating.