What To Expect While Donating
We take several steps to ensure that it is safe for you to donate and that your donation will be safe for blood recipients. Here is an idea of what to expect at your blood donation
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Registration – When you come to donate blood, you will need to sign in and provide a Red Cross donor card or photo I.D. You will be asked to read some information to help you determine your eligibility.
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Health History – In a confidential and private interview, you'll answer some questions about your health history and places you have traveled. If you have had a certain illness or traveled to a certain country, you may not be able to donate. This is called being deferred. Most deferrals are only temporary. Talk to a Red Cross representative at the drive to find out when you will be eligible to donate again.
If you are eligible to donate, we'll take your blood pressure, pulse, temperature and a small sample of your blood to test your iron level to ensure that you have enough red blood cells to donate. If your iron level is too low, you may not feel well after donating, so you will be deferred from donating blood that day.
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Blood Donation – We will cleanse the area of your inner arm and insert a sterile needle. This feels like a quick pinch and is over in seconds. The blood or blood component is then drawn from your arm and you are well on your way to helping save lives. The actual whole blood collection only takes about 10 minutes. Platelets, red cells and plasma collection can take up to two hours. Our collections staff takes the utmost care to make the experience safe and pleasant for you. If at any time you feel uncomfortable, please be sure to tell someone.
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Relax – After donation, you can relax in the refreshment area for as long as you like. (We recommend at least 10-15 minutes.) A Red Cross volunteer will serve you juice and a snack to help boost your blood sugar and fluids. This short rest is more important than you might think to ensure you feel well after your donation. This is also a good time for you to reflect on the gift you've shared.
More detailed information, including a video of the donation process, can be found at http://www.redcrossblood.org/donating-blood/donation-process