THE DONATION PROCESS

• Please arrive at the registration table (just inside the commons near the main office doors) about 5 minutes before your scheduled donation time. 
• You’ll be asked to show ID, such as your driver’s license.
• If you are 16-years-old, you need to turn in your parent consent form before being allowed to donate blood. 
• We’ll ask you for your complete address.  
• You'll be offered some pre-donation goodies or other snacks and then sent out to the bloodmobile. 

• You’ll begin by answering a few questions about your health history and places you’ve traveled, during a private and confidential interview.
• You’ll also talk about any prescription and/or over the counter medications that may be in your system.
• Then, your temperature, pulse, blood pressure and hemoglobin levels will all be checked.  
• If all those things are looking good, an area on your arm will be cleaned and a brand new sterile needle inserted for the blood draw. (This feels like a quick pinch and is over in seconds.)
• The actual donation process takes  8-10 minutes, during which you’ll be seated comfortably or lying down.
• When approximately a pint of whole blood has been collected, the donation is complete and a staff person will place a bandage on your arm, offer you snacks and/or refreshments, and then send you on your way. 

Treat your body well after giving 

blood by using these tips:

• Eat well and increase your fluid intake for the next 24 to 48 hours.
• Do not smoke for 30 minutes and avoid smoking areas.
• Avoid drinking alcohol for at least four hours.
• Avoid strenuous physical activity and heavy lifting for about four hours.
• Remove the Coban bandage after two hours.

If you feel unwell after donating, 

follow these guidelines:

• If driving, pull over immediately and stop.
• Lie down.
• Loosen collar or neckwear.
• If possible, seek a cool place and drink cool liquids..