Blood Donor Selection and Eligibility Criteria

Blood donor selection and eligibility criteria are critical components of transfusion medicine, ensuring the safety of both donors and recipients. This tertiary-level topic is vital for Zambian university and college students studying Blood Transfusion Science, Public Health, or Nursing. It covers the physiological, medical, and behavioral criteria used to screen potential donors, including age, weight, hemoglobin levels, medication history, and risk behaviors. The topic also addresses Zambian-specific regulations, such as minimum donation intervals, exclusion for malaria treatment, and deferral policies for transfusion-transmissible infections. Understanding donor eligibility helps prevent the collection of unsafe blood, reduces the risk of TTIs, and supports sustainable blood supply systems. Mastery of this content is essential for examination success and for practical roles in donor recruitment, blood bank management, and public health advocacy across Zambia, aligning with World Health Organization and national blood service guidelines.