Giving Blood

What to Expect When You Give Blood

1. You'll be asked to provide identification when you come to donate. We will need your:
   • Name
   • Date Of birth
   • Social security number
2. Blood Donor Center staff will do a limited physical exam to check:
   • Your temperature
   • Your blood pressure
   • Your pulse

     

   • We will also take a drop of your blood to see that you have enough cells to donate.
3. We will answer any questions you have about the donation process. If you are allergic to tape, iodine or latex, please tell the interviewer. We will also ask about your present health and health history. Be assured that this is a private, confidential interview. You will be given a form on which you provide information that lets us know if your blood is safe to give to someone else. Based upon your answers, it is possible that you will be deferred from donating. This deferment may be permanent, or just temporary.
4. When it's time for you to donate:
   • You are made comfortable in a reclining chair.
   • We obtain venous access: there will be a brief "sting" from the needle
   • You will relax for about 10 minutes while a pint of blood is obtained
   • At the end of the donation, a small bandage will be placed on your arm
5. You will be ushered to an area where you can relax.
6. You will be given a form with donation instructions and a number to call at the Blood Donor Center if you decide that your blood may not be safe to give to someone else.
7. Athough it is rare, an occasional patient may feel faint, dizzy or weak after donation. The Blood Donor Center will provide all the support and care you require.

 Find out about donating platelets!