Siliguri, March 12: A state-of-the-art equipment which promises to make blood donation a tension-free session was inaugurated today at the Rotary Blood Bank here.

The Japan-made Terumo Penpol DC 200, a donor's couch with improved configuration, is the first in the country, said Jivan Pradhan, the secretary of the blood bank.

The equipment — composafe blood donor couch — is a sophisticated cushioned bed with armrests, pillows and adjustable clamps on a roller platform for bodily comfort. The couch is also designed to tackle physiological complications of the volunteer that might arise after the donation.

According to Salil Dutta, a physician and the chairman of the blood bank, with this type of equipment, the risk factor for the donor is almost reduced to zero.

“Many people suffer from vasovagal attacks or dilation of blood vessels in the legs after donating blood. This condition can be hazardous as blood is drained out from the brain and other vital organs of the body. The donor can also suffer from dizziness and nausea,” said Dutta.

“If a vasovagal attack occurs, the donor’s head needs to be lowered immediately and his legs lifted above his heart level so that the blood can flow back to the brain. This equipment, which is far more sophisticated than the previous donor couch model, is designed to deal with these emergencies,” he added.

The comfortable couch is also relaxing for donors who feel nervous and shaky.

Volunteers can read books or watch television while giving blood. A unit for separation of blood components can also be installed with the couch,” Dutta added.

In his inaugural speech, Jim Freeman, a Rotarian from Arizona, warned people to stay away from professional donors and instead take blood from close relatives only.

“Since June 10, 2001, we have collected 5,171 bags of blood. Of them, 17 samples were found to be infected with HIV, 43 were found with hepatitis B, 44 had hepatitis C, 28 were infected with venereal diseases and three contained malarial parasites, said V. G. Krishnamurthy, the in-charge of the blood bank.

According to Krishnamurthy, a patient or his family seeking blood should always approach their relatives first as it reduces chances of infection. He warned against professional donors. The in-charge also added that the Rotary Club Blood Bank conducted the safest screening of blood.

Bhagirath Jan Kalyan Kosh of Calcutta has donated the entire set-up that cost Rs 1.5 lakh.