Insights from platelet donors in tertiary care hospitals

Abstract Background: Blood and platelet transfusions play a vital, life-saving role in modern medicine. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study utilized a structured questionnaire administered to platelet donors via a convenience sampling method from February 2023 to October 2023. After excluding incomplete and outlier responses, 352 completed forms were analyzed. Platelet donations were performed using Terumo Accel, Spectra Optia, and MCS+ apheresis machines. Statistical Analysis: Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and percentage analysis with SPSS version 23. Results: The mean age was 30.81 (SD = 8.29) years. Only 1.98% of donors experienced hematomas as well as fainting, 263/352 (74.71%) expressed that they felt appreciated, and 293/352 (83.23%) believed that a lab test on the donated blood would serve as a motivator. Most (95.17%) donors were fully satisfied with the donation process, and 91.76% appreciated the staff’s efforts. Also, 321/352 (91.19%) indicated a desire to donate in the future based on a suitable time, 302/352 (85.79%) felt adequate privacy at the center, 329/352 (93.46%) found the environment clean and hygienic, and 288/352 (81.81%) expressed a wish to donate voluntarily twice or more in a year. The majority of the donors had the “O Positive” blood group. Conclusion: Donor retention is essential for ensuring a positive and satisfying donation experience. Strategies such as showing appreciation for donors and offering laboratory tests on donated blood can be effective motivators. Although the incidence of adverse reactions was low and mild, additional measures can be implemented to minimize them further.