How long does the whole process last?
The 5 step process takes about 35-45 minutes, excluding the possible wait period if persons are ahead of you.
Registration 5-8 mins
HB Testing 3-5 mins
Interview 5-7 mins
Donor Room 15 mins
Refreshments 3-5 mins
How sterile is the needle being used?
The empty blood pack has its own needle and when used it is dumped. The site of the venipuncture is then cleaned with a sterile solution.
How often can I give blood?
Persons in good health can donate blood can be given every 3 months.
For what reasons can I be turned down?
Rejection may be for:
- Low HB (Haemoglobin)
- Medication (Presently being taken)
- Miscarriage (Past 6 months)
- Recent skin piercing or tattoos
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Blood borne infections and diseases such as HIV/AIDS
Can I give blood before eating a meal?
No, You must have a balanced meal before donating blood. Iron is essential for the body’s blood production, therefore green leafy vegetables, such as callaloo, green beans, spinach, lettuce, cabbage are very important for the diet.
Can one (1) unit of blood save the lives of several people?
Yes! The unit of blood you donate is usually split into several parts to meet the needs of different patients. Eg. platelets may given to a child with leukemia in order to give this child a chance to live, while your red cells my help an accident victim get well. The point is YOUR SINGLE DONATION CAN HELP SAVE SEVERAL PATIENTS.
Can you get AIDS or any other disease by donating blood?
There is no risk of getting AIDS or any other disease from giving blood. A brand new needle is used for each blood donation. Once it is used, the needle is destroyed.
Will giving blood make me weak?
Rather than make you weak, the giving of blood will improve your blood circulation as new blood takes the place of the blood you donated. Post donation, we recommend continuous fluid intake over the next 48 hours in order to fully restore your body.
