Abstract

A survey was conducted to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding blood donation among
Kampala International University (KIU) students at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital, Kabarole District. The
study exclusively included adult KIU students aged 18 and above. Employing a case study approach, data collection
took place at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital in Kabale District. From the sample group, 50 students
participated by completing both open-ended and closed-ended questionnaires. Additional insights were drawn from
textbooks and journals. Ethical protocols, including confidentiality and informed consent, were strictly followed
throughout the study. Data analysis was conducted using Microsoft Excel, with findings presented through tables,
graphs, and pie charts. The study timeframe was concise, yielding significant insights. Results indicated a higher
participation rate among males (60%) compared to females (40%). Notably, all respondents demonstrated awareness
of blood donation, with 60% acquiring information through educational institutions and 30% from media sources
such as TV, radio, and newspapers. Furthermore, 94% were familiar with their blood group, with blood group O
being the most prevalent (53.19%) and a positive Rhesus factor prevailing among 63.8% of respondents. Moreover,
90% of participants were aware of blood donation collection sites, predominantly identifying blood banks.
Regarding the donation process, 40% estimated its duration to be between 20-30 minutes. While a majority (90%)
exhibited positive attitudes towards blood donation, only 30% had previously donated blood, citing fear of needles
(42.8%) as the primary deterrent. However, among donors, the primary motivation was to save lives. Interestingly,
fear of needles emerged as the primary barrier preventing others from donating blood, highlighting the importance
of addressing this concern. Suggestions for enhancing blood donation included widespread sensitization efforts to
underscore its significance. Despite the favorable attitudes observed among KIU students, the practice of blood
donation was suboptimal, indicating the imperative for comprehensive educational initiatives and enhanced
measures to promote participation