Special to The Island News
Patients who require blood transfusions rely on healthy donors to give blood at local blood drives and donation centers, ensuring hospitals like Beaufort Memorial have the supply they need.
Donating blood is one of the simplest, most powerful ways to make a difference in your community, though many people hesitate because they aren’t sure what to expect or how to prepare for their donation.
Whether you’re a first-time donor or a seasoned blood donation veteran who gives regularly, understanding the right steps to take (and what you should avoid) can make your donation easier, safer and more impactful.
By following OneBlood’s few key guidelines before, during and after your donation appointment, you help ensure the best possible experience for yourself and the patients who rely on lifesaving blood every day in this community.
Do – Prepare properly
Do check if you are eligible to donate blood. Don’t donate if you’re feeling sick, and make sure you meet OneBlood’s basic donation requirements before you go. If you aren’t sure about your eligibility, don’t let that hold you back. Educate yourself; OneBlood lists Frequently Asked Questions about donation eligibility on their website at OneBlood.org.
Do hydrate in advance. Drink lots of water, and not just the day of your appointment, but the days leading up to it, too.
Do eat a balanced, iron-rich meal before donating. Eating beforehand helps maintain energy and ensures better iron and hemoglobin levels in your blood at the time of donation. Iron-rich foods include meats like beef, chicken, eggs, broccoli, shrimp, lentils and enriched wheat products.
Do bring a valid photo ID. You’ll need your photo ID to register or check in for your donation appointment.
Do wear comfortable clothing with short sleeves. Short sleeves make it easier for staff to access your arm for your donation.
Do take time to rest afterward. After donating, take some time to rest and relax. Have a light snack and be sure to drink lots of fluids, and avoid participating in any heavy or strenuous physical activity.
Don’t – Skip the essentials
Don’t donate if you are under the weather. Colds, the flu, stomach bugs or other infections can render you ineligible to donate temporarily, and it’s safer for you and those receiving blood donations.
Don’t show up dehydrated or on an empty stomach. Fasting or skipping meals can be a recipe for dizziness, fainting or poor donor outcomes.
Don’t assume your medications are acceptable. Most medications and supplements are fine for donors, but some conditions and treatments may affect your eligibility to donate. Always review your health history during screening prior to donating blood.
Don’t rush into physical activity after donating. Avoid intense exercise and heavy lifting for at least the rest of the day following your donation. Lightheadedness, dehydration, dizziness and fainting can occur.
What to expect during donation
When you arrive for your appointment, the process involves registration with your photo ID, a brief health and eligibility screening (including temperature, pulse, blood pressure, hemoglobin), and then the actual blood collection, which only takes about 10 to 15 minutes total.
After donating, rest for a few minutes, have a snack or drink and let your body recover. Many donors feel fine after, but being mindful and taking care of yourself can help avoid any fatigue or lightheadedness.
“Donating blood is a generous act that can help patients in need across your community,” said Michelle Foster, HT (ASCP), Director of Laboratory & Pathology Services at Beaufort Memorial. “By brushing up on donation dos and don’ts, you help keep the process safe, both for you and those in our community who are relying on your lifesaving generosity.”
