About the Service
Did you know you can give blood three times each year? You must leave 12 weeks between donations. The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS) asks donors to pledge to give blood three times during 2007. Because each donation is split into three separate parts, this means you can help save or improve the lives of nine separate people in 2007.
When blood is donated it is separated into red blood cells, platelets and plasma (fresh frozen plasma or cryoprecipitate). These are used for treatment of different conditions. Like all medical treatments a transfusion should only be given when it is really necessary. The decision to give a transfusion to a patient is made only after careful consideration. In making the decision your doctor will balance the risk of you having a transfusion against the risk of not having one. If you need a transfusion your doctor will explain why it is best for you, if this has not been explained then ask.
