This information explains how YOU can help us make the donation process safe for yourself and patients who might receive your blood.
Who can be a blood donor?
- You must be in GOOD HEALTH
- Within the ages of 17 to 60 years
- Must weigh more than 110 pounds
- Males and females are equally welcome
What to do before you donate blood?
- Have a good night’s rest
- Have a meal 1-3 hours before donating
- Have at least 3 glasses of water 3 hours before donating
- Wear loose fitting clothing, especially the upper garment
How do we determine if you are eligible to donate blood?
- We will ask questions about health, travel and medication
- We will ask questions to see if you might be at risk for hepatitis, HIV or any other blood borne infection.
- We take a small blood sample to make sure you are not anaemic and to identify your blood type
- We take your blood pressure, pulse.
How long does the process take?
Please reserve about 45 mins to 1 hour for donating. The actual bleeding process takes 4-10 mins (depending on the individual). The rest of the time is needed for processing and resting after donation.
What to do after you donate?
- Drink a lot of fluids
- Take the rest of the day easy
- After donating most persons will not feel different and are able to perform their usual duties. Your body will naturally replace the blood that you donated.
What is your blood used for?
- Replace blood lost due to trauma (motor vehicle accidents, stabs wounds, burns etc.)
- Treat persons with rare abnormalities such as haemophilia
- Replace blood lost during surgical procedures (cardiac surgery, complications in pregnancy, etc)
- Improves the quality of life for sickle cell patients
- Anaemia of various causes
If you have any questions please contact any blood collection centre for assistance.
