Blood Utilization
Donated Blood's Journey
Every time you roll up your sleeve to donate blood, you’re starting a journey that could save multiple lives. But what exactly happens after you donate? Here's a step-by-step look at the incredible path your blood takes.
1
Blood Donation
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You visit the blood donation center.
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Your health condition and medical history are checked to ensure you’re eligible to donate.
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A small sample is taken for testing, and one pint of whole blood is collected.
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Each donation is labeled with a unique identity code for tracking.
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Your blood is stored in a temperature-controlled unit before being sent for processing
2
Testing & Processing
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Your blood sample is tested for blood type (A, B, AB, O and Rh factor).
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It is also screened for infectious diseases such as:
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HIV
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Hepatitis B & C
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Syphilis
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Malaria and others
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​If any tests are reactive, the blood is safely discarded and the donor is informed confidentially.
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It is separated into three main components using a centrifuge:
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Red Blood Cells
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Plasma
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Platelets
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Each component is stored separately for different types of patients and treatments.
3
Storage
Blood components are stored under specific conditions:
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Red Blood Cells: refrigerated (1–6°C) for up to 42 days
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​Platelets: room temperature with continuous agitation, up to 5–7 days
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Plasma: frozen at -18°C or lower, can be stored up to 1 year
4
Distribution
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Hospitals or emergency centers request blood components based on patient needs.
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Blood bank staff match the request with available units and ensure safe packaging and transport
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Blood is delivered quickly – sometimes within hours for emergencies.
5
Saving Lives
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Your blood may help:
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Accident or trauma victims
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​Patients undergoing surgery
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Cancer patients needing platelets
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Burn victims requiring plasma
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Mothers with childbirth complications
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One donation can help save up to three lives