This year, the NHS are running National Blood Week from June 19-25, encouraging people from all over the UK to donate at their local clinic. Straight after the World Health Organisation hosted World Blood Donor Day, on June 14, it certainly appears to be the time to spread the word and inspire people to get involved, and give blood.

National Blood Week’s: “I’m There” campaign (#ImThere) highlights how you can save the life of someone else – whilst going about your own – and breaks down some of the barriers which discourage people from becoming donors.

The intention of World Blood Donor day was to help every country to eventually collect 100% of their medical blood supply from voluntary, unpaid donors. With 62 nations around the world already reaching this target, increased awareness of the safety and ease with which anybody can become a regular donor is essential for this healthcare consciousness to continue.

At Hygia Healthcare Training, we believe the best way to achieve the imperative targets set by organisations such as NHS, and WHO, is by continuing to share and endorse their campaigns, and incorporate their globally positive messages into our work wherever possible.

Our comprehensive range of Clinical Healthcare Training programmes encompass the essential skills and knowledge that exist within the healthcare industry’s management of blood transfusions, whether in a supervisory or clinical role. We also offer Medical Administration training, for the fundamental, often complex roles of managing patient data and information, including that of donors.

If you are interested in becoming a regular donor, your first port of call should be a registered nurse, who will test the haemoglobin levels in your blood. Upon the result of this test, you may be invited to give a full donation (usually 470ml). Prior to the donation, you are advised to drink plenty of fluid (non alcoholic), eat at regular intervals, and avoid physical exertion.

A donation usually takes between 5-10 minutes, after which you will be advised to relax, drink plenty of liquid, and keep the small dressing over the affected area of your arm for several hours.

For more information on National Blood Week and how to get involved, visit: http://www.who.int/campaigns/world-blood-donor-day/2017/en/