Frequently Asked Questions From Colleagues or Members,
Tips and Pointers
When you approach your colleagues or members about making an appointment to donate
blood, some may not be eager to sign up to start donating. Here are some possible scenarios
to help you deal with different responses.
Scenario A.
“I don’t like doctors…” “I don’t like needles…” “I’m too afraid…”
People who raise this objection are afraid of doctors, needles, or an unknown experience.
You should:
1.
Acknowledge their fear:
“I understand your concern; many people are nervous about donating blood.”
2.
Give reassurance:
Walk them through what it might be like…
“Here’s what to expect: you will register, your health history will be taken, and the donation
itself will only last about 5 to 10 minutes. The needle will feel like a mild pinch, and that’s all.
Afterwards, you’ll rest for a short while and have some refreshments, juice, and maybe a
cookie or two.”
3.
Ask for a commitment:
“It’s worth it to save lives. The clinic staff and volunteers are friendly and make it really easy.
Call 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888-236-6283) to make an appointment and you’ll see.”
Scenario B.
“I’m too busy…”
People who raise this objection do not realize how truly important the need for blood is.
You should:
1.
Inform them:
“I know how busy you are — many of us are. But we give blood anyway because it is always
needed. It only takes about an hour. After all, nothing is more important than helping someone
who is sick or injured to recover. It’s likely that in your lifetime either you or someone you know
will need blood.”
2.
Tell them about your organization’s support:
“Many people from our (organization) are donating, from (the leader of the organization/CEO)
on down.”
3.
Invite them to join:
“Why don’t you join us? Call 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888-236-6283) to make an appointment or
visit www.blood.ca to book online — they have many options for dates and times that are
convenient.”
4.
Other things you could say:
“Let me tell you, they have the best cookies.”
“I like the mini-health exam; they check your blood pressure, temperature and iron levels.”
“I feel so good after I go and the reward is immediate.”
“You get a great feeling of pride after donating blood. It’s a pretty good return on a small time
investment.”
Scenario C.
“I have a medical condition”
or
“I’m taking medication which prevents me from donating blood.”
You should:
1.
Accept the answer.
“I understand your reason.”
2.
Verify eligibility: Many people assume certain medical conditions and
medications will defer them from donating. Share information about how to confirm
eligibility.
“Did you know that eligibility criteria sometimes changes? Maybe you should call 1 888 2
DONATE (1-888-236-6283) to find out for sure. Who knows — maybe you actually are eligible
to donate blood. They have nurses available that you can talk to, who have the most up-todate criteria.”
3.
Respect their privacy should they decline that option: “No, thanks anyway.”
“OK, well let us know if your condition changes. We would love to have you join our group of
blood donors, so you could help us reach our goals.”
Scenario D.
“Forget it. You can get AIDS when you give blood.”
This is a belief some people have. Their response is a result of myth and misinformation.
1.
Inform and reassure them:
“You can’t get AIDS or any other disease when you give blood. The materials, including the
needle used for your donation, are new, sterile, disposable, and only used once by you for
your donation. The skilled clinic staff wears protective gloves. You are not exposed to anyone
else’s blood.”
2.
Ask them to consider:
“You could always call 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888-236-6283) and talk to a nurse who can
confirm the process and allay any fears you have about this. Patients who need blood are
counting on healthy people to give blood. Blood cannot be manufactured. There are no
substitutes. If you consider that your blood donation can help several people, you may change
your mind.”
3.
Ask them to participate.
“Call 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888-236-6283). I’m certain they can reassure you regarding the
safety of donating blood. Then, while you are on the phone with them, you can make an
appointment to donate and see for yourself. One blood donation can save a life.”
The Most Common Questions Asked:
What will happen first?
When you arrive at the clinic, you will be asked to provide some basic information and valid
photo identification.
How long does the donation take?
The actual donation procedure is done by skilled, specially trained clinic staff and takes five to
10 minutes. You will rest after donation, and enjoy refreshments. Plan to spend about an hour
at the donor clinic.
How will I feel after the donation?
Most people feel great! Donors who know what to expect and have eaten regular meals and
are well hydrated before donating are usually fine. After donating, drink extra fluids for the next
24 hours. Also, you are advised to avoid strenuous exercise for six to eight hours.
Who can give blood – what are the donation criteria, what determines eligibility?
Very specific criteria must be met before a person can become a blood donor. There are some
medical conditions that can temporarily or even indefinitely defer a blood donation. Some of
these are listed in the “Who can give blood?” brochure and more information is available at
www.blood.ca or by consulting a nurse by calling 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888-236-6283).
All donors will be evaluated during their health interviews at the donor clinic. You may be able
to save donors’ time and help the donor clinic run more smoothly by encouraging them to read
and follow the guidelines in the brochures we provide.