Challenges in recruiting and retaining blood donors – a mission of healthcare professionals in the transfusion network

Abstract

The blood bank within every healthcare facility is a vital unit with a fundamental role. Through its operations, the blood bank ensures that adequate supplies of blood and blood components from all blood groups are available at all times, including in cases of emergency. The aim of this study is to identify attitudes toward blood donation – whether viewed as a humanitarian act or a necessity – in order to develop strategies for recruiting and retaining blood donors. Materials and Methods: An original study was conducted among 210 donors who were randomly selected and expressed a willingness to participate in the study. A direct anonymous questionnaire, developed specifically for the purpose of the study, was used. The study was conducted during June-July 2025 at the Center for Transfusion Hematology, Military Medical Academy, University Hospital – Sofia. The data were analyzed using the statistical software IBM SPSS Statistics Version 26. The results show that a variety of factors influence the respondents’ willingness to participate in blood donation campaigns. So-called “directed” blood donation still predominates, but the reason for a first blood donation may also be the desire to help, the organization of a blood drive at the workplace, near home, etc. In conclusion, it is important to emphasize the crucial of conducting information campaigns in schools by medical professionals as part of students’ health education, as well as fostering motivation among young people for unpaid and voluntary blood donation in the future.