Perceptions of public about Blood Transfusion in Allied hospital Faisalabad: A qualitative study.

BackgroundBlood donation and transfusion practices are very crucial for a health care system. This study aims to check the perceptions of Public about blood donation and transfusion practices in Allied Hospital, Faisalabad (Pakistan). Study Design and MethodsThe study used a qualitative exploratory design, conducting 20 semi-structured interviews with patients and attendees of the surgical and gynaecology unit at Allied Hospital, Faisalabad, from April to June 2023. Using Random sampling technique, data was collected from both donors and non-donors. Then, data was analysed using inductive thematic analysis, which involved identifying patterns and themes within the data. ResultsInitial analysis revealed various codes which were ultimately reduced to five main themes with their subthemes namely 1. Personal Factors with sub-themes (1a) Blood donation priorities, (1b) Family influence and Physical Attributes of donor, (1c) Socio economic status, (1d) Gender roles, 2. Consequences of transfusion and Donation; sub-themes (2a) Allergic reaction, (2b) Weight changes after Blood Donation, 3. Motivating Factors for Blood Donation; sub-themes (3a) Health Benefits, (3b) Humanitarian Factors, 4. Restriction Factors for Blood Donation; sub-themes (4a) Selling of Donated Blood, (4b) Substandard Blood Bank, (4c) Wasting of Donated Blood and 5. Awareness regarding blood donation. ConclusionThis study shows that religion, personal beliefs, family and friends, and socioeconomic status influence willingness of a person to donate. However, low understanding of benefits and risks is prevalent among Pakistanis, highlighting the need for counselling and health education activities.