The Energy Chamber of Trinidad and Tobago, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health has partnered to increase the number of voluntary blood donors in T&T.
The blood donation drive will take place at the Energy Chamber’s Learning Centre from October 10th -12th during the hours of 9am - 3pm.
Individuals and companies interested in participating in the blood drive, please complete the following form and email to administration@energy.tt
The blood drive is a voluntary non remunerated blood donation.
What is Voluntary Non- Remunerated Blood Donation (VNRBD) ?
Voluntary Non-Remunerated Blood Donation is giving blood to the National Blood Bank expecting nothing in return.
Why donate blood via the VNRBD ?
·We need more blood -Family/replacement donors cannot meet the need for blood and blood products.
You save lives – Voluntary Non-Remunerated Blood Donation makes you feel good.
Safer Blood - Blood which is donated voluntarily is safer.
Regular supply - True Voluntary Blood Donors donate blood more regularly than other types of donors
How could I donate Voluntarily?
Blood can be donated by anyone meeting the health criteria
Visit any of the Blood Donation Centres
Fill out the registration form. This can also be done online.
An interview will be conducted. For your own safety you will be asked information on your medical history. A mini- medical examination will also be done
If you are selected to make a donation, your blood will be tested for certain infections to ensure it is safe for the recipient.
A nurse or trained phlebotomist will draw your blood. There is a 15-minute mandatory rest period after giving blood before you are allowed to leave the donation centre.
How will I get blood if I, or a loved one needs?
Blood that is donated voluntarily will be placed in the national pool to be utilised.
Blood will be utilised from the national pool based on needs.
Planning to Donate… then the following should be considered:
Eat a balanced, healthy diet including a variety of iron-rich foods from the Six Caribbean Food Groups everyday.
Keep hydrated with about 8-10 glasses of water daily.
On the day of your donation:
Drink an extra 16 ounces (2 cups) of water before the donation. Non-alcoholic beverages like 100% fruit or vegetable juices can also be used.
Eat a healthy meal within 3 hours before donating including different food groups (for instance a chicken sandwich with greens).
Avoid fatty foods/snacks like hamburgers, fries or ice cream.
Avoid alcoholic beverages
In order to donate blood, your body needs to have enough iron. Iron is a nutrient that helps make new red blood cells.
AFTER Donating:
Eat a salty snack
To replenish your fluids, drink an extra four cups of water (or non-alcoholic drink) over the next 24 hours.
Avoid alcoholic beverages
Continue consuming iron-rich foods every day.
Include foods containing Vitamin C (pineapple or mango chow is a Vitamin C rich snack).