Donors who react may not come back: analysis of repeat donation as a function of phlebotomist ratings of vasovagal reactions.
Previous studies using small or restricted samples suggest that vasovagal reactions to blood donation are associated with a decreased likelihood of repeat donation. In the present study, we examined data for all allogeneic whole blood donors (n=89,587) in the American Red Cross Blood Services, Central Ohio Region during an entire year. Results of a one-year follow-up revealed that moderate and severe vasovagal reactions reduced the likelihood of repeat donation by 50% or more. Light vasovagal reactions, which represented 97% of all reactions recorded, significantly reduced return rates by 20% for first-time donors and 33% for experienced donors.
France
Christopher R
CR
Department of Psychology, Ohio University, 245 Porter Hall, Athens, OH 45701, USA. france@ohio.edu
Rader
Aaron
A
Carlson
Bruce
B
D001782:Blood Donors / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009820:Ohio; D018962:Phlebotomy / Q000379:methods; D012011:Red Cross; D019462:Syncope, Vasovagal / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology