Studies show that blood donations can help people who are fighting certain diseases.Your blood contains a component that helps promote clotting, but it also contains other parts of your blood, including platelets.The process of donating blood involves a blood draw that takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.Blood typeAB plasma is in high demand because it can be used for any blood type, but every donation may help save a life.
Step 1: Determine if you meet eligibility requirements.
You need to meet certain requirements in order to donate.Make sure you know what you need to do.All donors must be at least 18 years old.A donor needs to be at least 120 pounds.You have to pass a medical examination and be tested for STDs.
Step 2: A pre-donation physical is needed.
A confidential pre-donation physical is required before you can donate.The purpose of this is to assure you're healthy and able to donate blood.Your vitals are taken and you answer a series of questions during the physical.You will let the doctor know if you are currently taking any drugs.The blood test will be taken during the exam.This is to make sure that you can safely donate blood.
Step 3: You need to complete a donor history questionnaire.
To determine your eligibility to donate, you will have to complete a donor history questionnaire.Current medications, recent surgeries, and tattoos and piercings will be asked on the questionnaire.
Step 4: Follow nutrition guidelines to stay hydrated.
You'll have to follow certain guidelines in the days leading up to your donation if you're approved to donate based on your exam and questionnaire.It's a good idea to include 50 to 80 grams of protein daily in your diet.Lean, healthy proteins like those found in fish, nuts, and poultry are good for you.In the days leading up to the donation, make sure to drink extra fluids, such as water or fruit juice.
Step 5: The forms of identification need to be brought.
Forms of identification are required at the donation center.The receptionist will accept the following: Current photo I.D (e.g., passport, driver's license), Social Security Card, or Border crossing.There is proof of a local address.
Step 6: A technician can conduct a blood test from your finger.
A technician at the donation center will take a blood sample from you.To make sure you're healthy enough to donate, this will be used to quickly check our iron andprotein levels.
Step 7: Prepare your arm for the needle.
Your arm will be prepared for the donation once you have adequate iron andProtein levels.A technician will insert a needle into the vein after you've been doused with antiseptic.The process may be painful but shouldn't be unbearable.It is similar to a light bee sting.
Step 8: Donate bone marrow.
The donation process begins once the needle is in.The red blood cells are separated from the blood.It's a good idea to bring reading material or an electronic device with you because the process takes about 2 hours to complete.Some centers will allow you to bring a friend with you during the process.
Step 9: Receive your money.
You will get compensation for your time once the donation process is complete.You can do this at the reception.The amount of compensation varies from center to center.
Step 10: For several hours, keep your bandage on.
Your arm will be bandaged after the donation is complete.Ask the doctor at the donation center how long it will take to remove the bandage.After removing the bandage, wash the injection site with soap and water.
Step 11: You need to care for yourself after the donation.
You need to follow certain procedures after donating to make sure your body has time to recover.After donating, eat a light healthy meal.Fruits and veggies, and whole wheats or grains are good for you.Stay hydratedAfter donating, you should drink plenty of water and juice.You can drink room temperature liquids.Don't smoke cigarettes for at least 30 minutes after the donation.Alcohol should not be used on the day of your donation.