Donating blood saves lives. It is a fast, easy and usually painless procedure that lasts for about 20 minutes. Most healthy individuals can donate blood. The general guidelines for donors are people over age 17 (16 years with parental or guardian consent) and weigh a minimum of 110 lbs. You can donate every 8 weeks if you donate whole blood. If you are donating other blood components such as platelets or plasma, you may donate more frequently. This article will help you prepare and understand what is needed and done when donating blood.
Instructions
1. Bring a photo ID at the time of the blood donation for proof that you are over 17.
2. Eat a low-fat meal within 4 to 5 hours of your donation. Remember to drink plenty of fluids such as water or fruit juices before and after the donation. Buy drinks that have added electrolytes to help replenish the body.
3. Remember to get plenty of rest and a good night sleep before the blood donation. Do not go out the night before and drink alcohol or smoke prior to the day of the donation.
4. At the donation you will fill out a questionnaire and be given a private, confidential screening interview by the healthcare provider to see if you qualify as a donor.
5. If you pass the screening interview the healthcare provider will take your temperature, blood pressure and vital signs. He/she will sterilize the injection site with alcohol and then insert a needle to draw the blood into a container.
6. Blood will be collected in several containers for 8 to 10 minutes before the needle is removed and a bandage placed on your arm to cover the site.
7. Drink plenty of water and other fluids to replenish the body after the donation. Do not drink alcoholic beverages or smoke straight after the blood draw. Wait for a minimum of 1 hour before resuming regular activity. Wait till the next day to start any strenuous exercise.
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