Validation of selected donor‐screening questions: structure, content, and comprehension

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Abstract
BACKGROUND: Donor questioning is an integral component of blood safety, designed to identify and interdict donors considered to be at elevated risk of transfusion‐transmissible infection. Questions are frequently added to this screening procedure, but they are rarely evaluated for comprehension. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Seven American Red Cross blood donor history questions were selected for evaluation. Focus groups were conducted using individuals from high school/college, church, business, and other sources, who had never donated blood. Both sexes and various age and racial groups were represented. The donation process and regulatory requirements or guidelines were explained. Participants were asked to consider 1) content, 2) clarity 3) likelihood of asking for more information, 4) suggestions for improvement, and 5) how a need for clarifying information would best be met. RESULTS: Constructive, helpful, and consistent comments obtained might be utilized in revising questions. CONCLUSION: Focus group discussions can be useful in providing guidance for developing screening questions that can be easily understood.