The combination of assessing each donor clinically (at every attendance) and testing each donation for markers of infection is essential to maximise donor and recipient safety.
Each donor must undergo an assessment based on the JPAC Donor Selection Guidelines1 to determine his/her eligibility to donate. This requires each donor to complete a questionnaire and answer a series of standard questions relating to their general health, lifestyle, travel history, past medical history and medication.
In addition, as a minimum requirement for all donors on entry to a component donation programme, their pulse and weight must be assessed and recorded.
If necessary, with the donor’s consent, his/her general practitioner or other health care practitioner may be contacted for further information.