Practice Patterns of Autologous Blood Donation among Healthcare Workers in a Tertiary Healthcare Facility in Azare, Northeastern, Nigeria.

Abstract

Autologous blood donation (ABD) reduces transfusion-related risks, yet its uptake among healthcare workers (HCWs) remains poorly documented. This study assessed ABD practice patterns among HCWs in a tertiary hospital in Northeastern Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from 1st to 31st August 2025 at the Federal University of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital, Azare. Using stratified random sampling with proportionate allocation, 249 HCWs were selected from a total workforce of 547. However, 237 completed the questionnaire. Data were collected using a pre-tested, structured, self-administered questionnaire assessing four ABD-related practices. Data were analysed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square (or Fisher’s exact) tests were applied, with significance set at p ≤ 0.05. Self-donation for ABD was very low (3.8%) and showed no significant association with cadre (p = 0.115) but a significant association with gender (p = 0.039, Fisher’s exact), with females more likely to have donated. Formal training on ABD was significantly associated with cadre and gender (both p < 0.0001). Recommendation of ABD to patients varied significantly by cadre (p < 0.0001) and gender (p = 0.013). Awareness of institutional ABD protocols was not significantly associated with cadre (p = 0.12) but was significantly associated with gender (p < 0.0001). ABD practice among HCWs was suboptimal, with disparities in training, recommendations, and protocol awareness. Strengthening training, awareness, and institutional protocols may improve integration of ABD into routine patient blood management practices.