Voluntary Non-Remunerated Blood Donation (VNRBD) Program
The Palau Red Cross Society (PRCS), in partnership with the Belau National Hospital, is committed to ensuring that safe and sufficient blood supplies are available for patients in need. Through Blood Drives and the recruitment of Voluntary Non-Remunerated Blood Donors (VNRBDs), we help maintain a reliable pool of donors to support the health of our community.
A VNRBD is someone who donates blood regularly and on their own free will, without expecting payment or reward.
This is considered the safest type of blood donation, as voluntary donors give blood purely for humanitarian purposes.
Why is it safe?
Voluntary donors provide honest information about their medical history and lifestyle, ensuring donated blood meets the highest safety standards and that donors are not denied the opportunity to give.
In Palau, the Belau National Hospital uses between 40 to 60 units of blood each month, but only about 20% of these units come from voluntary donors, the safest type of blood available. Other forms of blood donation in Palau include replacement donations (from family or friends) and paid donations, which carry higher risks.
Here’s a pie chart showing the proportion of blood donation types at Belau National Hospital for an example month (50 units total).
Voluntary Donors: 20% (10 units) — the safest type of blood.
Replacement/Paid Donors: 80% (40 units) — higher risk types.
Why Blood Donation is Important
Blood can only be stored for up to 30 days. This means there must be a constant supply of safe blood. Regular donors are essential to meeting this need and ensuring the hospital has blood ready for emergencies.
Palau’s national guidelines for donation intervals:
Male donors may donate every three (3) months.
Female donors may donate every four (4) months.
These intervals allow donors’ bodies time to recover and ensure safe donation practices.
MYTHS ABOUT BLOOD DONATION
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This is a misconception. Donating blood does not cause weight gain. The body replenishes the lost blood volume, but this process does not result in an increase in body fat.
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Donating blood does not cause high blood pressure. In fact, blood donation may help in reducing blood pressure levels. The American Red Cross notes that blood donation is safe for individuals with high blood pressure, provided their condition is well-controlled.
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The human body contains about 10–12 pints of blood. A typical donation is one pint, which is approximately 10% of your total blood volume. The body quickly replaces the lost blood, and you remain well within safe limits.
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In Palau, as in many parts of the world, blood donation eligibility is based on individual’s health and risk factors, not sexual orientation or gender. The Palau Red Cross Society welcomes all eligible donors to contribute.
FACTS ABOUT BLOOD DONATION
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During a donation, only about 450ml of blood is collected which is approximately 10% of the total blood volume in an average adult body (4,500ml). This amount is safe and does not negatively affect your body’s ability to function.
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After a donation, your body quickly works to replace the lost blood components. Plasma is replaced within 24–48 hours, while red blood cells and iron stores are restored within a few weeks. This natural replenishment process is supported by a healthy lifestyle.
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Supports cardiovascular health by reducing blood viscosity, which can lower the risk of heart disease.
Maintains healthy iron levels, so removing excess iron can help prevent certain health issues, including iron overload.
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This renewal process helps keep your blood healthy and functioning efficiently.
Every blood donation has a purpose. Here are some of the ways your donation can be used to save and improve lives:
Blood Donor Recruitment & Retention
PRCS works actively to recruit and retain blood donors to ensure a steady supply of safe blood for the community.
Recruitment
PRCS actively promotes blood donation through community outreach, awareness campaigns, and public events. The goal is to encourage individuals to become Voluntary Non-Remunerated Blood Donors (VNRBDs), those who give blood freely, without any form of payment or reward.
Educational materials and information sessions are provided to help the public understand the importance of donating blood and to address common fears and misconceptions about the process.
Retention
Once registered, donors are encouraged to remain active participants in the program. PRCS maintains communication with donors by sharing updates, expressing appreciation, and informing them of upcoming Blood Donor Drives and emergency donation needs.
By maintaining positive engagement and recognizing donor contributions, PRCS aims to build long-term relationships with donors who continue to give blood regularly and inspire others to join.
Becoming a Voluntary Non-Remunerated Blood Donor
If you are 18 years or older and do not have any serious illnesses, you are encouraged to join our VNRBD Program.
Before donating, you will be asked to complete a medical questionnaire at the Belau National Hospital Laboratory to ensure you are eligible to donate.
Roles of a Voluntary Non-Remunerated Blood Donor
As a registered VNRBD member, you may be:
Voluntarily donating blood on your own free will.
Called upon during community blood drives to participate in donation events.
Contacted in emergency cases where an immediate blood donation is needed.
PRCS may contact all registered blood donors when there is a need for blood. However, all donations are completely voluntary.
The decision to donate rests solely on the donor’s consent and eligibility at that time.
If you’re thinking about donating blood, please keep these in mind to help ensure your safety and the safety of others:
Considerations
Avoid Alcohol and do not consume any within 24 hours before donating.
No history of illicit drug use is allowed, including substances such as crystal methamphetamine (ICE), cocaine, and similar drugs.
Wait after a tattoo by allowing at least 12 months before donating blood.
Avoid donating if you have a fever and wait at least 24 hours after your fever has subsided.
Avoid donating if you have a cold or a flu and ensure you are fully recovered before giving blood.
Do not donate after dengue fever or malaria until you have fully recovered and been cleared to donate.
These steps will help ensure that your donation experience is safe, smooth, and comfortable. Following these practices allows your body to be in the best condition for giving blood and helps ensure a positive donation experience.
Practical Steps to Take Before Donating
Drink up
Drink plenty of fluids for at least 24 hours before donating, and have at least three full-sized glasses of water (minimum 16 oz) within three (3) hours prior to your donation.
Rest Up
Get at least eight (8) hours of sleep the night before donating. Avoid strenuous physical activities before donating.
Say No
Avoid smoking and consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours before donating blood.
Eat Up
Have a full meal at least three (3) hours before donating. Eat foods rich in iron and protein such as lean meats, beans, leafy greens, and nuts.
Bring Identification
Always bring at least one form of photo identification and your hospital number when donating.
Post-Donation Guidelines
Observe the following after donating blood:
Keep the strip bandage on for several hours after donation. To prevent skin irritation, gently clean the area around the bandage with soap and water.
Avoid heavy lifting or vigorous physical activity for the rest of the day.
If the needle site begins to bleed, apply firm pressure for 5-10 minutes or until the bleeding stops.
If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, immediately stop what you are currently doing and sit or lie down until you feel better. Avoid activities where fainting could lead to injury for at least 24 hours.
Avoid smoking. Keep yourself from smoking for the rest of the day.
Benefits of Donating Blood
Donating blood is a simple act that has far-reaching benefits:
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Regular blood donation can help reduce blood viscosity, allowing it to flow more easily through your body and improving cardiovascular health. Some studies have linked regular donation to a lower risk of heart disease.
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When you donate blood, your body works to replenish the lost red blood cells. This stimulates the production of new cells and helps maintain healthy iron levels, which is important for your overall vitality.
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Blood donors join a network of compassionate individuals dedicated to helping others. Being part of this community fosters connection, purpose, and pride — knowing you’ve contributed to saving lives in your community.
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Frequent blood donation may help maintain healthy iron levels, which can reduce the risk of iron overload. Some research suggests this could lower the risk of certain cancers.