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Blood Donation Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What will happen first? A: You will be asked to provide some basic information such as your name, social security number, address, age, and so on. A medical history is taken and then a drop of blood is analyzed and your pulse, blood pressure and temperature are checked. Q: How long does the donation take? A: The procedure is done by a skilled, specially trained technician and takes 10 to 12 minutes. You will rest after donation, and enjoy refreshments. Plan to spend about an hour at the blood drive. Q: How much blood is taken? A: A unit, which is little less than a pint. Q: How long will it take to replenish the pint? A: Blood volume is replaced within 24 hours. Red cells need about 4 to 8 weeks for complete replacement. You need to wait 56 days or 8 weeks to donate again. Q: How will I feel after donation? A: Most people feel great! Donors who know what to expect and have eaten regular meals before donating are usually fine. After donating, drink extra fluids for the next 24 hours. Q: How soon after donating can I get back to my regular routine? A: Right away. Just avoid lifting, pushing or picking up heavy objects for about 4 or 5 hours after giving blood. Q: What happens to my blood after donating? A: After donation, your blood will be tested for blood type, hepatitis, HIV (AIDS antibody), HTLV-1, and syphilis. Then it can be used either as whole blood for one patient or, after separation into components (such as red cells, platelets, and plasma) to help several patients.
Last Modified: February 1, 2008 |
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