Things You'll Need:
- Identification
- Drink lots of fluids before donation
- A big heart and the satisfaction of helping others by learning how to donate blood .
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Step 1
Contact 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or pleasegiveblood.org to find out where and when a local blood drive will occur near you. The red cross also has some permanent facilities called Blood Centers where you can give blood . There will be info on the site on how to donate blood in addition to what I am writing below. Below is strictly from my own personal experience and what I learned while doing it.
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Step 2
You need to be at least 17 years old and weigh 110 pounds or more to give blood. Bring proper identification.
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Step 3
Drink plenty of fluids the day you plan to give blood
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Step 4
When you get to the blood drive or blood center, you'll need to register. As mentioned above please have your ID with you. Also be prepared to answer any questions regarding your health and medications you may be on. This is done strictly to protect you and ensure they are receiving healthy blood. If you mention a health problem that prevents you from giving blood a staff member will let you know.
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Step 5
The Red Cross Staff will also have you read certain forms related to giving blood, ask you about your travel history (in case you've been to a country that puts your blood at risk), as well as lifestyle questions. These questions are done privately and typically on a computer in private so don't worry about others around you.
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Step 6
They also check your iron. This is done by pricking your finger with a devise and then they drip a couple drops of blood into a test tube. It is only a quick prick and does not leave a scar (though you will leave with a bandage on your finger :-)
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Step 7
A blood pressure check is also done. They also check your temperature and take your pulse as well.
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Step 8
When you are done registration, they'll have you sit an wait awhile for your turn. Expect to be there for about 60 minutes total time. The actual donating of blood takes only about 15 minutes.
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Step 9
When you are called, you'll lay on a table. They'll sterilize the area they are going to prick. They'll ask you first if you are allergic to Iodine before doing this.
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Step 10
Then they stick you with the needle. I'm not a big needle fan but it is not too bad. You'll lay there about 15 minutes with the needle in your arm, squeezing and rolling a small object in your hand (which I think is to keep the blood circulating and the vein big, could be wrong though :-)
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Step 11
When you are done, they'll remove the needle, give you a bandage and ..... here's the best part ..... send you to a table for free cookies, pretzels and a choice of a fruit drink . This is to get your blood sugar level up.
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Step 12
Some people report being a little dizzy after giving blood so as a precaution they'll have you sit there and eat your snack. I was fine but others react differently. Drink plenty of fluids prior to giving blood.
