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Preparation Before and After Blood Donation

Before Donating Blood

Before Donating Blood

  • Ensure you get a good night’s sleep, resting for at least 5 hours.
  • Feel comfortable and healthy, and be ready to donate blood. If you are taking any medications, inform the doctor/nurse conducting the health screening.
  • Have a regular meal before donating, avoiding high-fat foods such as pork knuckle rice, chicken rice, coconut curries, and desserts, as well as high-fat drinks like sweetened condensed milk and cream, for at least 6 hours prior to donation. These foods and drinks can make the plasma cloudy and unsuitable for patient treatment.
  • Drink approximately 300-500 cc of water 30 minutes before donating, which helps maintain good blood circulation and reduces the risk of fainting after donation.
  • Avoid alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours before donating.
  • Refrain from smoking for 1 hour before and after donating to allow your lungs to function properly.

During Blood Donation

  • Wear clothing with sleeves that are not too tight and can be rolled up at least 3 inches above the elbow. Choose the arm with a clearly visible vein, ensuring the skin in that area is free from rashes or bruises. If you are allergic to antiseptics like alcohol, inform the staff beforehand.
  • Do not chew gum or suck on candy while donating.
  • Squeeze the rubber ball consistently during donation to facilitate blood flow.
  • If you experience any unusual symptoms during the donation, such as palpitations, dizziness, faintness, numbness, or abnormal pain, notify the staff immediately.

After Blood Donation

  • Rest in bed for 5 minutes; if you feel fine, get up and sit for an additional 10-15 minutes while drinking a beverage and having a snack.
  • Increase your water intake for the next 24 hours.
  • Take one iron supplement daily after meals until finished to replace iron lost during donation, ensuring you can donate regularly.
  • Avoid activities involving heights, as they may cause dizziness or fainting.
  • Do not use the arm that was used for donation for 24 hours.
  • Stay away from crowded and stuffy places, and avoid activities involving speed, height, depth, or machinery.
  • Refrain from vigorous exercise that causes sweating for 24 hours.