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Donating blood is a selfless act that benefits countless individuals each day. The need for a steady blood supply is ongoing. In July 2024, the American Red Cross faced an emergency blood shortage after its national blood inventory fell by more than 25 percent. The Red Cross recently reported its lowest donor turnout in 20 years. There may be different reasons why people do not give blood, and confusion the process could be one of them.
The process of donating blood is simple, safe and quick. Although each organization may run a blood drive differently, here is what a blood donor can expect of the donation process.
• Register for the blood drive at an organization close to you. Many groups require you make an appointment, but some may accept walk-ins.
• Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated the day before the donation appointment. Also, set aside your identification. The type of identification needed may vary by donation center.
• The day of the donation, be sure to wear a short-sleeved shirt or one with sleeves that can be rolled up.
• Arrive for the appointment and complete a mini-physical and health history. Your temperature and blood pressure may be taken, and other vital signs may be checked. The attendant will ask questions about behaviors or illnesses that may exclude you from being able to donate blood.
• You may undergo a finger prick to test whether you are anemic, or when your body doesn’t produce enough red blood cells or hemoglobin.
• During the donation of whole blood, 500 milliliters, or roughly 17 ounces, will be collected. A phlebotomist will cleanse an area on your arm and insert a new, sterile needle for the blood draw. The quick pinch is over in seconds. For a donation of platelets, a special machine called an apheresis machine will be connected to both arms.
• A whole blood donation takes about eight to 10 minutes to complete, during which you can be seated comfortably or lie down. For platelets, the machine will collect a small amount of blood, remove the platelets, and return the rest of the blood through the other arm. This cycle repeats several times for a period of about two hours. Bandages will be placed on your arm at the conclusion of the donation where any needles were removed.
• Following the blood draw, you’ll be allowed to rest and recover. There likely will be small snacks and beverages in a refreshment area.
After around 10 to 15 minutes, you’ll be allowed to leave and continue your normal routine.
• It’s best to avoid vigorous activities for at least four hours after the donation. Make an effort to remain hydrated for two days following the donation.
• While most donors feel fine afterwards, it is not uncommon to experience mild dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, or bruising and pain at the draw site. These symptoms should resolve fairly quickly. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says you can donate blood and blood products at these intervals: - Whole blood donation: 56 days - Platelet donation: 7 days - Double red cell donation: 112 days - Plasma donation: 28 days Learn more about blood donations at www.redcrossblood. org or www.hhs.gov/
