Blood donation in 7 steps
Whether it takes place at a blood transfusion Centre (CTS) or at a blood collection point near you, blood donation lasts around 1 hour and involves various steps :
Step 1 (5 min)
You will be greeted by a nurse from the CTS, and you will then fill out a medical questionnaire (which must be printed double-sided on a single A4 page of white or recycled paper, or filled out on the spot).
Completing this questionnaire is essential for your safety and that of the recipient. Please also read the Transfusion CRS Switzerland Prescription Information Form.
Step 2 (5 min)
Administrative registration is carried out (you will be asked for an identity card; note that an electronic version is not valid for a first donation) in order to create your donor file and keep it up to date.
This file is anonymous.
Step 3 (8 min)
Showing of information on how to donate, via a video or DVD (available below)
Step 4 (5 min)
Your haemoglobin is checked (finger prick).
This verifies and eliminates any risk of anaemia.
Step 5 (10 min)
A nurse will interview you to determine your eligibility for donation.
This interview is confidential.
Step 6 (10 min)
A sample of 450 ml of blood is taken.
Step 7 (15 min)
You will be offered a rest period and a snack.
To find out more :
- Watch the information video on blood donation at the HUG
If your test results are normal
For your next donation, you will receive an invitation by e-mail including the medical questionnaire (which must be printed double-sided on a single A4 sheet of white/recycled paper or filled out on the spot).
Please also read the Transfusion CRS Switzerland Prescription Information Form.
NB: the medical questionnaire must be completed on the day of the donation.
In the event of abnormal results
The CTS will send you a letter as soon as possible with instructions on how to proceed.