How do blood donors interpret the Swedish donor history questionnaire?

Abstract

Background and ObjectivesThe blood donor history questionnaire, together with blood samples, aims to ensure that blood donation is safe for both donor and recipient. Donors’ interpretation of the questions is of the utmost importance. The objective of this study was to examine how blood donors in Sweden interpret the donor history questionnaire and to assess the need for rewording any questions.Materials and MethodsTwelve cognitive interviews were conducted with blood donors. A survey was distributed at blood centres in two regions in Sweden. Altogether, 671 donors returned the survey.ResultsAlthough a majority claimed to understand the donor history questions, not all donors reported on their medications or healthcare episodes. There was a significant correlation between donors who did not report on medications and the third of donors who did not read the donor information. The concept of being in full health varied for different donors and many were uncertain about the definition of new sexual partner.ConclusionOverall, the blood donors were satisfied with the readability of the questions. However, some questions turned out to be more difficult to interpret, and may need to be reworded. The study demonstrates the need for easy access to blood safety information.