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Donation Process

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To get ready for your donation:

Make an Appointment

It always helps us to know in advance when you are coming in to make a donation.

Hydrate

Be sure to drink plenty of fluids the day of your donation.

Wear Something Comfortable

Wear clothing with sleeves that can easily be rolled up above the elbow.

Maintain a Healthy Level of Iron in Your Diet Before Donating

If possible, include iron-rich foods in your diet, especially in the weeks before your donation.

 Blood Donation Process

Bring a List of Medications You Are Taking

We will need to know about any prescription and/or over the counter medications that may be in your system.
Blood Donation Process

Bring an ID

Please bring either your donor card, driver's license or two other forms of identification.

Bring a Friend

Bring along a friend, so that you may both enjoy the benefits of giving blood.

Relax!

Blood donation is a simple and very safe procedure so there is nothing to worry about.

The Donation Process Step by Step

Donating blood is a simple thing to do, but it can make a big difference in the lives of others. The donation process from the time you arrive until the time you leave takes about an hour. The donation itself is only about 8-10 minutes on average. The steps in the process are:

Step 1:
 
 Step 2:
Registration Health History & Mini-Physical
First step for blood donation Second step for blood donation
  1. Our staff and volunteers will sign you in and go over basic eligibility and donation information.
  2. You will read information about donating blood, and will be asked to show a donor card, driver's license, or other
    form(s) of ID.
  1. You will answer some questions during a private and confidential interview about your health history and places you have traveled.
  2. We will check your temperature, pulse, blood pressure and hemoglobin level present in a sample of blood. 
Step 3:
 
 Step 4:
The Donation Refreshments
Third step for blood donation Fourth step for blood donation
  1. We will cleanse an area on your arm and insert a brand new sterile needle for the blood draw. This feels like a quick pinch and is over in seconds.
  2. The actual donation takes about 8-10 minutes, during which you will be seated comfortably. Certain donation types, such as platelets, red cells or plasma (apheresis donations) can take up to 2 hours.
  3. When approximately a pint of blood has been collected, the donation is complete and a staff person will place a bandage on your arm.
  1. After donating, you should have a snack and something to drink in the refreshments area. You can leave the site after 10-15 minutes and continue with your normal daily activities.
  2. Enjoy the feeling of accomplishment knowing that you have helped save lives.
Here is what to do after your donation:

Hydrate More

You should continue to drink water throughout the day of your donation.

Avoid Heavy Lifting or Exercise

Try not to exert yourself too much for the rest of the day.

Accept Our Most Sincere Thank You!

Also accept the thanks of people whose lives were changed by blood donations.

Connect with Other Donors!

Visit our Blood Donor Community and Share Your Story about why you donate.
Enjoy the feeling of knowing that you helped save lives!		 After the Blood Donation Process
CLICK HERE to report any changes in how you feel or concerns that you might have after your donation.