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The procedure is simple, safe, and personally rewarding
- You are 17 years of age or older. Senior citizens are
eligible.
- You weigh at least 100 pounds. Apheresis donors
must weigh at least 110 pounds.
- You are in good health. If taking medication, you may
be eligible to donate, depending on the reason for and type of the medication.
- You have waited at least 56 days (eight weeks) since
your last whole blood donation.
- You had hepatitis when you were 11 years old or older.
- You have received a blood transfusion during the last
year.
- You are pregnant or have been pregnant within the last
six weeks.
- You have had a tattoo within the 12 months.
- You are participating in any high risk behaviors.
- You register and answer a simple series of medical history
questions.
- A mini-physical to check your iron, blood pressure, temperature
and pulse is given.
- Roll up your sleeve; you’ll feel a slight pinch.
The actual donation will take about 5-8 minutes.
- Relax for a few moments while you are served cookies
and juice or soft drinks.
- Realize reluctance is normal. Many people experience
a natural hesitancy towards donating. Once you have done it, the fear of
the unknown is overcome.
- Familiarize yourself with donating. Ask questions of
the staff. Understanding the procedure helps one relax.
- View this experience as an opportunity to help up to
three people in need. The only resource for blood is healthy individuals.
There is no alternative or substitute.
You will be asked to provide some basic information such
as your name, address, age, and so on. A medical history is taken and then
a drop of blood is analyzed for iron content; your pulse, blood pressure
and temperature are checked.
The procedure is done by a skilled, specially trained technician
and takes 5-10 minutes. You will rest and be served refreshments. Plan to
spend about 35-45 minutes at the blood drive.
There is a little sting when the needle is inserted, but
no pain during the donation.
Blood volume or plasma is replaced within 24 hours. Red
cells need about 4-8 weeks for complete replacement.
Most people feel just great! Donors who know what to expect
and have eaten regular meals before donating are fine. After donating, drink
extra fluids for the next 24 hours.
Yes, if you are feeling well.
Just avoid heavy muscular or strenuous activities such as
lifting, pushing, or picking up heavy objects for at least 4 to 5 hours after
giving blood.
After donating, your blood will be tested for type, cholesterol,
and several communicable diseases and conditions, including hepatitis, HIV (the
virus that causes AIDS) and syphilis. Then it can be used either as whole
blood to help one patient, or separated into components to help several patients.
You can give blood every 56 days (eight weeks); up to 6
times per year.
NO. You cannot get any disease by donating blood. All materials
used for your donation are new, sterile, and disposed of immediately on completion
of your donation.
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