Verenluovutus

Verenluovutus, or blood donation, is the act of giving blood or blood components to a national or regional blood service for use in medical treatment. In Finland, verenluovutus is organized by Veripalvelu, the Finnish Red Cross Blood Service, in coordination with health authorities. Donations are typically voluntary and unpaid, aimed at maintaining an adequate and safe blood supply for hospitals.

Before donation, a donor undergoes a screening process that includes a health questionnaire and a brief physical check. Blood is tested for infectious diseases and safety markers. Eligibility depends on general health, age, and other criteria, with temporary deferrals for recent medical procedures, travel, or risk factors. Some groups, such as pregnant individuals or those with certain conditions, are restricted from donating.

The donation process can involve whole blood collection or the extraction of specific components such as red cells, plasma, or platelets. After collection, the blood is tested, processed into components, and stored under appropriate conditions. Whole blood and red cells are typically refrigerated, platelets are kept at room temperature with gentle agitation, and plasma is frozen for longer-term use. Donors are advised to rest and hydrate after donation.

Donors may give blood multiple times a year, subject to local policies and personal health. Blood components are used to treat a wide range of conditions, including surgical patients, accident victims, and individuals with cancer or blood disorders. The system emphasizes safety, traceability, and donor-recipient matching to minimize risk to both donors and recipients.