Determination of information, attitudes and behaviors about immune plasma donation of individuals diagnosed with COVID-19

Abstract

Background: Immune plasma therapy is an effective solution in pandemic conditions until an effective and proven treatment is found. In this process, a large number of volunteers who accept to be immune plasma donors are needed. Therefore, being informed about the hesitation of the donors regarding plasma donation will be a guide for voluntary donor recruitment. The aim of this research was to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of individuals diagnosed with Covid 19 about immune plasma donation. Materials and Methods: This is cross-sectional research. Between January and May 2021, individuals between the ages of 18 and 60 who received treatment in a training and research hospital's Covid 19 clinics were included. Results: The mean age of the participants was 43.79±11.47 years, 45.5% (n=100) female and 55% (n=120) male. 46.36% of the participants are considering becoming immune plasma donors. One of the factors that prevent being an immune plasma donor is the thought that "it may negatively affect my health. "Half of the participants do not know whether sufficient immune plasma donation is made in the country. Conclusions: The health care system needs to be strengthened about immune plasma donation during the pandemic process. In addition, efforts should be made to eliminate the hesitations of the public about donations.