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Tips on Blood Donation

Have a good meal at least 3 hours before donating blood.
Accept the snacks offered to you after the donation, it is vital that you have them. You are recommended to have a good meal later.
Avoid smoking on the day before donating. You can smoke 3 hours after donation.
You will not be eligible to donate blood if you have consumed alcohol 48 hours before donation

Wear clothing with sleeves that can be raised above the elbow.
Let the phlebotomist know if you have a preferred arm and show the staff any good veins that have been used successfully in the past to draw blood.
Relax, listen to music, talk to other donors or read during the donation process.
Take the time to enjoy a snack and a drink in the refreshments area immediately after donating.

Drink plenty of fluids over the next 24-48 hours to replenish any fluids you lost during donation.
Avoid strenuous physical activity or heavy lifting for about five hours after donation.
If you feel light headed, lie down, preferably with feet elevated, until the feeling passes.
In rare cases when bleeding occurs after removing the bandage, apply pressure to the site and raise your arm for 3-5 minutes. If bleeding or bruising occurs under the skin, apply a cold pack to the area periodically during the first 24 hours.
If for any reason something doesn't feel right, call the American Red Cross toll-free number provided to you after your donation.
Enjoy the good feeling that comes with knowing that you may have saved as many as three lives.

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