Blood carries oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Blood has four main components: plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Whole blood donation includes the donation of all components, which are then separated after the donation process. Each component has a necessary, specific function in the human body.
The need for healthy whole blood donations is greater than ever before. All humans require healthy blood to survive and there is no substitute for it. All blood types are in need. The reasons for receiving blood vary greatly, but can include patients battling cancer and diseases, patients undergoing surgery and/or childbirth, and trauma victims. Donating whole blood is an easy process that takes less than an hour of time and can save as many as three people. Healthy, eligible individuals can donate 1 pint blood every 56 days.
Instructions
1. Understand the need for whole blood and how healthy whole blood donations will be used.
2. Find a local donation center or blood drive through Givelife.org or call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543). While walk-ins at blood donation centers are usually accommodated, appointments are preferred and will save you time if whole blood donation lines are long.
3. Two hours before, eat a solid meal with iron (red meat, beans, green leafy vegetables, or nuts) and drink plenty of fluids.
4. Arrive to appointment 10 minutes early. Complete required basic paperwork. This may take up to five minutes. Turn in paperwork to coordinator/receptionist/medical professional at the donation center.
5. Go through a private, confidential questioning with a qualified medical professional. These questions are mandatory and are for the safety and health of both all individuals who may receive your whole blood donation. This interview may last as long as ten minutes.
6. Have blood pressure, temperature and hemoglobin levels (iron) checked by medical professional.
7. Once approved for donation, you will be moved to a reclined chair. You will feel a small discomfort when a needle is inserted in a proper vein in your inner-arm. Relax, while the process of whole blood donation only lasts 5 to 10 minutes. Donate 1 pint of whole blood. This is not a painful process; Most report it only slightly uncomfortable, if anything is felt at all.
8. Be sure to communicate to the medical professionals at the donation center if you feel light-headed or dizzy.
9. Once blood donation is complete, a medical professional will direct you toward a refreshment area. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids and to eat a snack. Many individuals drink juice, have a few cookies, and relax for ten minutes. Follow all post-donation instructions you have received verbally and/or been given on paper.
10. Consider repeating the whole blood donation process in 56 days.
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