Increasing regular donors through a psychological approach which reduces the onset of vasovagal reactions.

Vasovagal reactions, even in their mildest manifestations, deter donors from becoming regulars. They mainly occur during the first donation. A psychological approach based on a path involving three steps (welcome, psychological interview and accompanying the donor to the donation site) was performed in a group of 387 first-time donors. As a result, 96.64% of them became regular donors, 0.77% had slight vasovagal symptoms such as paleness or a feeling of weakness. Complying with the requirement and expectations of donors has proven to be an effective strategy in dissipating fears of donation and avoiding vasovagal symptoms and thus influenced their return.