Donated blood at Garissa County Teaching and Referral Hospital undergoes rigorous laboratory screening and safety checks before it can be transfused.
The process is aimed at protecting patients from infections and other transfusion-related complications.
Blood safety checks are done for patients requiring emergency care, surgery and other specialised treatment.
Head of Laboratory Services Evans Odhiambo said donated blood is screened for HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C and syphilis.
He said it also undergoes blood grouping and compatibility testing before being released for transfusion.
“Although waiting for blood can be distressing for families, these procedures are necessary to ensure patient safety,” Odhiambo said.
While blood is donated voluntarily, screening, processing, storage and other laboratory services incur operational costs.
Odhiambo encouraged eligible members of the public to donate blood regularly to help maintain adequate supplies and save lives.
