A Study of the Knowledge, Attitude and Practices  Regarding Blood Donation in the Relatives of  Paediatric Patients in a Tertiary Care Centre

Pranjali P. Sharma; Dr. Sandhya Khadse; Dr. Aarti Kinikar; Dr. Vishal Patil

Volume : III, Issue : VIII, August - 2013

A Study of the Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Regarding Blood Donation in the Relatives of Paediatric Patients in a Tertiary Care Centre

Pranjali P. Sharma, Dr. Sandhya Khadse, Dr. Aarti Kinikar, Dr. Vishal Patil

Abstract :

Blood is the most donated tissue in medical practice and a veritable tool in life–saving situations. Despite extensive efforts worldwide, the availability of blood still remains short. In India there is a need of about 8 million units of blood per year and only one third are obtained from voluntary donors. This study was undertaken to check the awareness of blood donation among the relatives of patients attending our wards. It was conducted among 57 participants on the basis of a questionnaire. 74% participants knew about Blood donation but only 21% had donated blood. General awareness about blood donation was high. Participants did not know specific details about the subject. There was a positive attitude to blood donation. Previously prevalent myths are no longer significant. Conclusions: Despite a positive mindset towards blood donation, efforts still need to be undertaken to progress further towards the ultimate goal of eradicating shortage of blood.