How to Give Blood Without Getting Weak or Sick

Each year blood donations save thousands of lives. Many people never donate, however, because the prospect of giving blood scares them. A few simple tips, however, make the process and recovery a bit easier.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Donation center
• Juice
• Carbohydrates

1. Evaluate yourself to see if you feel unusually fatigued, weak or sick.

2. Eat a hearty snack or meal that has complex carbohydrates prior to approaching the donation area.

3. Try to think of the positive impact your donation will have on the lives of others. Your upcoming discomfort will be miniscule compared to their gain.

4. Look away as the phlebotomist prepares you for donation if you get queasy or nervous.

5. Squeeze the ball or wad the phlebotomist gives you to ensure an ideal bloodflow.

6. Remain lying down for a few moments following the donation completion.

7. Eat a high-carb snack and drink some juice after you feel well enough to walk over to the recuperation area.

Tips & Warnings

• If needles scare you read a book or close your eyes during the donation process.
• If you're prone to being anemic you may not be able to donate.
• If you are underweight, you may feel a little more light-headed than others, so be sure to eat something substantial before donating.

Resources

• UCI Health: Blood Donor Center
• The American Red Cross
• Give2Life: Blood Safety
• Blood Bank of Hawaii: Donating

[marielc]

on 3/6/2009 I have problems with my iron. I just start taking iron supplements and that really helps me out.

[deedeehicks2008]

on 12/10/2008 Don't get discouragng about your hemoglobin(iron) being low. Iron fluctuates daily!!! When you donate blood your iron has to be a level to give. Although females iron in usually low right before and after their menses. Please do not get discourage about it. Come the next day and try again!!!