What To Expect When Donating Blood

What To Do Before Donating

Individuals who are going to donate blood should bring photo identification such as a driver's license, passport, or blood donor card with them to the donation center. Donors will also need to bring a list of all of their current medications, including over-the-counter medicines and herbal supplements. To help make the donation process as easy and comfortable as possible, donors are encouraged to eat iron-rich foods such as beans, spinach, red meat, and fortified cereals in advance of their appointment, and they may also wish to take iron supplements if this is advised by their doctor. Drinking extra fluids in the days leading up to donation is recommended, and patients are encouraged to get sufficient sleep the night before their appointment. Patients who are planning to donate platelets should not use acetylsalicylic acid in the two days before their donation, and all donors should wear comfortable clothing with loose sleeves that can be rolled up above the elbow. Immediately before donation, potential donors will have their blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and hemoglobin levels measured to ensure it is safe for them to donate. Individuals must have a pulse rate of less than one hundred and a blood pressure of less than 180/100 at this exam to be cleared for donation.

Read about what happens while donating blood next.