Knowledge of undergraduate health students regarding blood donation
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.36517/2175-6783.20262796382Keywords:
Blood Donation; Knowledge; Students, Health Occupations.Abstract
Objective: to understand the knowledge of undergraduate health students regarding blood donation. Methods: this was a qualitative, interpretative study conducted with a purposive sample of 42 students. Semi-structured interviews were transcribed and analyzed using the Interface de R pour les Analyses Multidimensionnelles de Textes et de Questionnaires software via Descending Hierarchical Classification. The analysis was grounded in lexical analysis and thematic-categorical content analysis, within the framework of Self-Determination Theory. Results: a total of 146 text segments were analyzed, achieving a retention rate of 68.49% and yielding five thematic classes. The study evidenced emotional, informational, and structural barriers to donation, as well as the persistence of myths regarding eligibility criteria. Motivations were associated with personal and family experiences and altruistic values, while benefits were recognized for both donors and recipients, emphasizing the humanitarian and social character of donation. Conclusion: students demonstrated significant knowledge gaps regarding eligibility criteria, ineligibility factors, and practical aspects of the donation process. Contributions to practice: this study informs the planning of educational and formative actions aimed at raising awareness and increasing the number of regular donors.
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Data Availability Statement
The authors declare that the entire dataset is available within the body of the article. However, if necessary, data may be requested from the corresponding author.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Ana Gabriela Rodrigues de Amorim, Maria Eduarda Souza Silva, Enilho Fernando Pereira Feitoza, Luiz Miguel Freire Pires de Carvalho, Ruan Gonçalves Silva, Roxana Braga de Andrade Teles, Amanda Regina da Silva Góis
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