Criteria for blood donation:
At least 18 years of age
Healthy individual
Feeling well
Free from fever, cold or other illness
Willing donor
At least 50 kg or 110 lbs at time of donation
Answer the questionnaire honestly
Have not donated blood in last 8 weeks
Blood pressure:
Between 100-150/60-100 mmHg
Medication:
You should free from any medicine for 72 hours (3 days)
Supplement such as vitamins are allowed
Before donation:
Have a good night’s sleep
Have a GOOD LUNCH and drink extra water and fluids to replace the volume you will donate
STOP smoking at least 1 hour before and after donating. Longer is better.
During the donation:
Wear clothing with sleeves that can be raised above the elbow
Relax during the donation
After donating:
Eat and drink something before leaving
Re hydrate by drinking plenty of fluids over the next 24 hrs
Avoid strenuous physical activity or heavy lifting for the next 24 hours. Keep dressing on the arm for at least 30 minutes.
If you feel light headed, lie down, preferably with feet elevated, until the feeling passes.
Benefits:
Health education and encouragement of healty lifestyle
Regular health checks, particularly of blood pressure
Studies and clinical research have shown a reduced risk of heart attacks among repeat donors, those who are non-smokers (as excess levels of iron can have damaging effects to heart muscle)
Donating blood help in regeneration of new blood cells and blood gets refreshed
A single unit of blood can be broken down into three component and thus can save three patients
Recognition of the community for your contribution
