To the Management Team,
I am writing to formally contest a three-month deferral placed on my donor profile following an incident on Monday, April 12. I have been a consistent donor and am concerned that this deferral is the result of an equipment or staff error rather than a medical necessity.
Incident Details: On April 12, I was seated for my donation. The phlebotomist on duty (who was not wearing a name badge, though my records will show who was assigned to my bed) performed the stick. However, only five minutes into the process, she disconnected me.
When I questioned why the process ended so quickly--as my donations typically take 50 minutes--the technician stated, "It was the machine." I specifically asked if this would result in a deferral, and she assured me it would not because she was able to successfully return my red blood cells.
The Dispute: I returned to donate two days later and found I could not sign in. After waiting for a manager who was reportedly checking work instructions, I was told via a security guard that I am now deferred until June.
I would like a formal explanation and a review of my file based on the following points:
1 Red Blood Cell Return: CSL policy generally dictates that if red blood cells are returned, a long-term deferral is not required. If my cells were returned as stated by the technician, why has a 60-day+ deferral been issued?
2 Safety Protocols: Unlike previous experiences where a "no-return" occurs, I was not monitored for the standard 10-15 minutes, nor was I provided with an electrolyte drink, further supporting the technician's claim that the return was successful.
3 Equipment Setup: I noticed blood in the plasma line and suspect the machine may not have been spiked or primed correctly.
4 Recurring Issue: A similar incident occurred in October where an employee admitted fault for a machine setup error. I am concerned that I am being penalized for a repeated technical error by staff.
I value the opportunity to donate, but I find it unacceptable to be deferred for three months due to an employee or equipment mistake. I am requesting that a manager review the logs for my April 12 donation, identify the technician involved, and contact me to discuss the removal of this deferral.
I look forward to your prompt response. read more