The National Blood Transfusion Services (NBTS) is in dire need of blood. It is therefore calling on persons to donate their blood to help save a life. If you are 17 years or older, in generally good health, free from any blood-borne disease and weigh at least 110 pounds, you can become a Voluntary Blood Donor.
The donation process is very simple and requires the following steps:
– Registration of donor
– Mini health checks comprising of: your body weight, pulse, blood pressure, temperature and HB (Iron) level. The donor’s blood type will also be identified at this stage.
– A brief interview to determine if your sexual lifestyle and medical history permits you to donate blood. This session is very private and confidential.
– The actual blood donation stage where a unit (less than a pint) of blood will be taken.
– Refreshment
The entire blood donation process takes 20 minutes. A person, who fits the criteria, can donate blood every two months. Blood donation allows the body to produce new red blood cells which carries oxygen around the body. Once these new cells are replicated, it allows the individual to feel more rejuvenated and healthier. Blood cannot be stored for long periods. One unit can be processed into three component parts each of which has the potential of saving a life when used to treat separate medical conditions.
The goal of the NBTS is for all the blood supplied in Guyana to be collected from voluntary, healthy donors. The unit of blood you donate is screened and delivered through a network of Blood Banks countrywide and used as needed.
“We appeal to all our voluntary donors and new donors to visit the NBTS, our blood donation facilities at New Amsterdam, West Demerara, Suddie and Linden hospitals or one of our mobile units and give a pint!” the NBTS stated.
The NBTS is located at East and Lamaha street (Georgetown Public Hospital Compound). Opening hours are 08:00 hrs to 18:00 hrs from Monday to Friday and on Saturdays, 9:00hrs- 15:00hrs. For further details, please call: 223 7182, 225 4972, 669 8776 OR 644 9590.
