Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion Medicine
Blood Donation is the most precious gift you can give to anyone – the gift of life. Share the important message of donating blood and download our resources for free for your office.
What is blood donation?
Blood donation is a process by which someone voluntarily gives his/her blood to be screened and used for patient transfusion.
Why is blood donation important?
It is important because blood cannot be manufactured or produced like other medications. It can only be taken from another human being. Blood donations save lives. Donors like you play an important role in helping make sure that blood is available when and where it is needed most.
Who does donated blood help?
- General Surgery and medical procedures
- Accidents and traumas
- Cancers
- Bleeding disorders
- Birthing mothers
How do you ensure or determine that the donated blood is safe to use?
All blood is screened for infectious disease such as HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and syphilis at the Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion Medicine prior to being used. All testing, cross matching and grouping of blood is performed on site before being provided for patient use at PMGH.
How do you ensure or determine that the donated blood is safe to use?
All blood is screened for infectious disease such as HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and syphilis at the Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion Medicine prior to being used. All testing, cross matching and grouping of blood is performed on site before being provided for patient use at PMGH.
Preparation for a successful blood donation:
- Eat lots of iron rich foods to ensure you have sufficient iron levels (red meat, eggs, poultry, leafy greens, nuts).
- Increase your vitamin C consumption (orange juice, citrus fruits or vitamin C supplement. Vitamin C for iron absorption).
- Ensure you have at least 8 hours of sleep.
- Ensure you eat before donation.
- Drink at least 3 good size glasses of water prior to donation.
- Do not consume alcohol at least 72 hours prior to donation.
- Wear a short-sleeved shirt or shirt with sleeves that are easy to roll up.
- Let us know if you have a preferred arm or particular vein that has been used successfully in the past to draw blood.
- Relax, listen to music, talk to other donors or read while you donate.
Contact the Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion Medicine and ask how you can “give the gift that keeps on living” – Call 324 8195.
ADDRESS:
Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion Medicine. 3 Mile, Taurama Rd, Port Moresby, NCD
OPENING HOURS: 9am – 3pm daily.
Not in POM? Contact your local hospital or provincial health authority for your nearest donation facility to make a life saving donation.
We have a range of Blood Donation resources available in English, Tok Pisin and Motu. Click through for more information.
Posters for download (English):
Posters for download (Tok Pisin):
Posters for download (Motu):
