Is is poor practice for plasma donation center clients to all sign in & out on a single fingerprint ID device?

Question by joe friday’s grrl: Is is poor practice for plasma donation center clients to all sign in & out on a single fingerprint ID device?
I recently started donating blood plasma again after a two-year break, and things certainly have changed in the check-in and check-out procedures. Most of the changes make things a lot more convenient for both clients and staff, but I feel a little uneasy about the new check-in and check-out procedures at the center I go to. When I arrive, I have to put my finger on a small, digit-shaped electronic pad that captures the print for identification. I do the same upon leaving, in order to get paid. The problem is that dozens of people stick their fingers on these two pads all day long, and I have never once seen anyone clean them. The thought of where all these people’s fingers may have been… I know that everyone who donates has been screened for all types of diseases, but that doesn’t mean they’re not carrying common colds and viruses. And most of the donors are like me, short on cash, using city buses to get there. It just doesn’t seem sanitary to me. Do I have good cause for concern?

Best answer:

Answer by Glenn M
Of course.. ask the staff for an alcohol wipe-actually an alcohol pad is what is usually used – if it’s OK – say you don’t want any germs on your finger – and if they can wipe the ID device – they use them to wipe probably to draw blood or insert an IV needle… they should be accommodating… say you don’t want to catch a cold -(or anything else)… don’t worry about too many other diseases everybody there is checked frequently for serious stuff…most people are disease free who are donating though not all perhaps so you have a right to be concerned…P.S. If they don’t let you do this ask to immediately wash your hands after touching the device before you go in and after as you use it on the way out too – I see you use it twice in your note – in and out.. Using plenty of soap and water is very effective at getting rid of any germs…

Give your answer to this question below!