Laboratory & Blood Bank
Diagnostic testing and transfusion support that keeps maternity care safe — operating 24 hours a day at Pumwani.
Diagnostics
Results you and your clinician can rely on
Our laboratory supports every clinic, ward and theatre in the hospital, with an on-site blood bank for emergency obstetric transfusion.
| Test group | Typical tests | Turnaround |
|---|---|---|
| Haematology | Full blood count, haemoglobin, platelet count, blood grouping | Same day |
| Blood bank | Cross-matching, transfusion support for theatre and labour ward | Urgent — within the hour |
| Serology & screening | HIV, syphilis (VDRL), hepatitis B, malaria, sickle cell screening | Same day |
| Biochemistry | Blood sugar, liver and kidney function, electrolytes | Same day |
| Urinalysis & microbiology | Urine protein and glucose, culture and sensitivity | Culture 48–72 hours |
| Pregnancy & fertility | Pregnancy test, beta-hCG where indicated | Same day |
Collecting results: results are issued to the requesting clinic and released to you at the laboratory window on presentation of your clinic card or booklet. Some tests require fasting — your clinician will tell you in advance.
Blood Donation
Safe blood saves mothers
Postpartum haemorrhage is the leading cause of maternal death worldwide — donated blood is often the difference between life and death.
Who can donate
- Aged 18–65 years and in good general health
- Weighing 50 kg or more
- Not pregnant or breastfeeding
- At least three months since your last donation
What happens
- Quick health screening and haemoglobin check
- Donation takes about 10 minutes; allow 30 in total
- Refreshments are provided afterwards
- You receive a donor card and a follow-up call
Family replacement
- Families may donate for a relative admitted for surgery
- Ask the ward nurse or blood bank for the donation slip
- Donors can donate at the blood bank during working hours
- All donated units are screened before release
Blood bank & blood donors
Our blood bank supports mothers and newborns around the clock — learn how you can donate.