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Preparation For Blood Donation

Congratulations! So you’re ready to give blood. Follow the guidelines below for a successful and rewarding blood donation experience.

Can I Donate?

You will probably meet the medical requirements to donate blood if you are in good health, at least 18 years old and weigh at least 55 kgs.
Some conditions may prevent you from donating blood temporarily, while others may permanently exclude you from donating blood. Below are some of the reasons you may not be able to donate today.
Hemoglobin or Hematocrit level is below what's safe for blood donation
Blood pressure or pulse is too high or low
If you are under treatment for a variety of illnesses like cancer, heart disease or certain blood diseases
Tattoos from a non-licensed / regulated facility
Body piercings
Cold or flu
Had a recent blood transfusion
Hepatitis
HIV / AIDS
Certain international travel
Organ / tissue transplants
Pregnancy
Sexually transmitted diseases
If you are taking certain medications

If you have any question about your eligibility please contact blood bank and do not assume you cannot donate

Before You go...

Thanks for deciding to donate blood! Before going to your local community blood bank, be sure:
To get a good night's sleep
To eat a well-balanced meal
To drink plenty of water, as hydration is very important
To bring a government issued state I.D. (drivers license, passport, Adhar card, etc.) or your college photo I.D.
You are at least 18-years old
You are in general good health

At the Blood Bank

Registration - Once you arrive at the blood bank or blood donation camps, staff will check you in and provide an overview of eligibility requirements and information on the blood donation process.
Donor Health History Questionnaire - Complete the confidential questionnaire that will be provided, answering each question honestly and to the best of your ability.
Mini-physical Examination - Staff will take your blood pressure, temperature, and hemoglobin levels and possibly your pulse to ensure your safety as a blood donor.

During Blood Donation

The actual blood donation process will take about 10 minutes.
Make sure to relax during this process.
Try Applied Muscle Tension during the donation - This simple technique consists of tightening the muscles of one region of your body, silently counting to five while contracting the muscles, then releasing the contraction and counting to five again.

After Blood Donation

Once the blood donation is complete, please wait for staff to assist you before attempting to rise from the donor bed or chair.
Follow staff instructions and proceed to the refreshment area for water and snacks.
Drink plenty of water to ensure proper hydration and remain in the refreshment area for at least 15 minutes. ake sure the next meal you eat is healthy and well balanced.
Follow the blood bank's additional instructions on how to take care of yourself after your donation. Do not smoke.
Now that you're finished, don't forget to schedule your next blood donation and enjoy the satisfaction of helping to save a life!