Prevention of Vasovagal Reactions in First-time Blood Donors Using a Combined PSYchological and Physiological Approach
Giving blood is amazing, but some people feel lightheaded or even faint, especially first-timers. This is called a vasovagal reaction. This study wants to find the best ways to stop this from happening, making blood donation safer and encouraging more people to come back. They're trying two main things: a short leaflet that helps people understand common worries about donating and guides them through some relaxing muscle and breathing exercises, plus a salty snack before they give blood. The hope is that combining these psychological (mind) and physiological (body) strategies will help new donors feel much better during and after their donation compared to current methods.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Blood donation is a very important act, but sometimes people can feel a bit unwell during or after, experiencing dizziness or even fainting. These sensations are often called 'vasovagal reactions', and they can make people hesitant to donate blood again. This is a big concern for blood donation services, as they want to keep donors safe and ensure they have a good experience so they continue to help.
Previous research has shown that simple things like squeezing muscles and staying hydrated (drinking enough) can help. However, some discomfort is linked to feeling stressed or anxious, especially for first-time donors. Current methods don't fully address this. Researchers believe that if we can reduce anxiety and combine it with a simple body strategy, fewer people will feel unwell.
This study will explore whether a new plan can make a difference. The plan involves two key parts: first, giving new donors a leaflet that explains common fears about blood donation and teaches them simple muscle and breathing exercises to do before giving blood. Second, asking them to have a salty snack beforehand. The researchers believe that these combined steps will be more effective than current approaches in preventing people from feeling unwell during or up to two days after donating blood for the first time.
Key takeaways
- Aims to reduce dizziness/fainting in first-time blood donors.
- Combines mind-focussed strategies with a salty snack.
- Hopes to make donation safer and encourage return donors.
- Focuses on relieving stress and anxiety.
- Easy-to-follow exercises and a simple snack are key interventions.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for people who are giving blood for the very first time. You need to be between 18 and 70 years old and considered generally healthy enough to donate blood after a chat with the donation staff.
You also need to weigh at least 50 kg (around 7 stone 12 pounds) and be at least 135 cm (about 4 feet 5 inches) tall. They'll need to be able to contact you by phone a few days after your donation to check how you're feeling.
There are some reasons you can't join, for example, if you have certain allergies (like to shellfish, gluten, milk, or soy), are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are already part of another study. The study is based in Lyon, France, so you'd also need to understand French.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 18 and 70 years old?
- Is this your very first time donating blood?
- Do you weigh at least 50 kg and are you at least 135 cm tall?
- Can you be reached by phone a few days after your donation?
- Do you have any allergies to shellfish, gluten, milk, or soy? (If yes, you likely can't join)
- Are you pregnant or breastfeeding? (If yes, you can't join)
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll still go through the usual blood donation process. The main differences are that before giving blood, you'll receive a short leaflet to read. This leaflet includes information to ease worries and instructions for some simple muscle and breathing exercises, which you'll be asked to do. You'll also be asked to have a salty snack before your donation.
After your donation, you’ll be contacted by phone between three and seven days later to check how you are feeling and if you experienced any dizziness or other symptoms. The total duration of your participation will be from the time you agree to join until this follow-up phone call is completed, usually within a week of your donation.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- French Blood Establishment (EFS)Verified postcodeLyon, France
Common questions
What is a 'vasovagal reaction'?
It's when you feel lightheaded, dizzy, or faint, sometimes with sweating or nausea, often when giving blood or seeing needles.
Why is this study only for first-time donors?
First-time donors are more likely to experience these reactions due to newness, stress, or anxiety, so the study focuses on helping them.
What kind of 'salty snack' would I eat?
The study suggests a salty snack, which would likely be something small and easy to eat before donation, but exact details would be provided.
Are the psychological exercises difficult?
No, they are simple muscle and breathing exercises designed to be easy to follow and help you relax.
Will I still give blood if I join the study?
Yes, the study is about improving the experience of blood donation, so you will still be donating blood as planned.
How to find out more
Brice MD POREAU
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.