University of Tasmania
Browse

Understanding non-return after a temporary deferral from giving blood: A qualitative study

Download (319.58 kB)
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-17, 16:08 authored by Hillgrove, TL, Kathleen DohertyKathleen Doherty, Moore, VM
Abstract. Background: The reasons why deferral from blood donation reduces the likelihood of future return remain unclear. This aim of this study was to investigate possible reasons why deferral has such a dramatic impact on donation patterns. Methods. Qualitative methods were used to explore donors' motivations to give blood, their experiences of temporary deferral, and their intentions to return once eligible. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 23 donors in the two weeks following a temporary deferral due to a low haemoglobin concentration. The Framework approach was used to analyse data and identify themes associated with prompt return, ascertained from Blood Service records. Results: We found that, predominantly, individuals give blood because it represents an easy and convenient way to help others, and provides personal rewards, such as enhancing positive self-concepts and valuable knowledge about health. Deferral disrupts the habit of regular donation, and additionally, introduces an element of practical and emotional hassle to what is generally seen as an undemanding activity. Return after deferral was related to four aspects of a person and their context: an individual's other obligations, especially parenting; whether donation arrangements were facilitated by a range of supports; the presence of a strong "blood donor" identity; and whether deferral left the donor feeling valued and appreciated. Conclusions: Aspects of the deferral process need to be improved to ensure individuals feel valued, and continued attention should be given to the convenience of donation, especially for those with competing obligations. © 2012 Hillgrove et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.

History

Publication title

BMC Public Health

Volume

12

Article number

1063

Number

1063

Pagination

1-11

ISSN

1471-2458

Department/School

College Office - College of Health and Medicine

Publisher

Biomed central Ltd

Place of publication

236 Gray's Inn Rd, London, WC1X 8HB, UK

Rights statement

Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/

Repository Status

  • Open

Socio-economic Objectives

Health education and promotion

Usage metrics

    University Of Tasmania

    Exports

    RefWorks
    BibTeX
    Ref. manager
    Endnote
    DataCite
    NLM
    DC