THE PROCESS OF DONATING
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU DONATE BLOOD
Let us help you understand the ins and outs of giving blood. We want you to feel as good as possible before, during and after your donation.
Remember, donors must be in good health, at least 16 years old* and weigh at least 110 pounds for whole blood donation.
*16-year-olds need written parental consent to donate. In some states (NC and VA), parental consent is required for 17-year-olds as well.
I’M READY TO DONATEBEFORE YOU DONATE
PREP YOUR BODY
Before you give blood, get plenty of rest, drink lots of water and eat a healthy, iron-rich meal (meat, fish, beans and leafy greens are great options) and salty snacks. This will ensure the process goes smoothly.
IMPROVE YOUR EXPERIENCE
FIND A LOCATION
Whether it’s a bloodmobile or one of our centers, you can save up to three lives with one donation. Making an appointment to give blood saves you time when you arrive, but you’re always welcome to donate without one too.
FIND A LOCATION
PROVIDE YOUR HEALTH HISTORY
Cut your wait time in half by filling out your TBC Express Pass questionnaire online the day you donate.
COMPLETE QUESTIONNAIREWHEN YOU ARRIVE
BRING YOUR ID
When you arrive, stop by our check-in desk to be greeted by our team. We’ll get you registered with a photo ID, then scan your TBC Express Pass QR code if you’ve already filled out the questionnaire. If not, no worries—our team will guide you through it while you relax.
COMPLETE A MINI PHYSICAL
You’ll be welcomed into a private room for a quick health check. This simple step makes sure you’re feeling your best and ready to give the lifesaving gift of blood. We will check your blood pressure, hemoglobin, height and weight. To determine donation eligibility, we will ask you some questions, take your blood pressure and temperature, as well as check your hemoglobin to ensure you are not anemic.
DONATE AND RELAX
Once you’re comfortable on the donor bed, we’ll gently cleanse your arm with antiseptic—just let us know if you have any allergies to chlorhexidine or iodine. Every donation uses a brand-new, sterile needle for your safety. Then it’s your time to relax, breathe and know you’re giving back in a powerful way.
AFTER YOU DONATE
After your blood donation, we’ll treat you to a 10-minute refresh with snacks and drinks to help your body recharge and keep you feeling strong for the rest of your day. Please keep your bandage on for at least four hours—and wear it proudly! It’s a badge of honor that just might inspire someone else to donate.
Before you go, don’t forget to schedule your next visit—because every donation means another life saved.
HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR DONATION EXPERIENCE
- Keep your arm still during your donation to prevent irritation of your vein or nerves.
- Inform our staff immediately if you feel any arm discomfort, nausea or faintness.
- Practice muscle tensing while on the donor bed to improve blood flow. This involves crossing legs at ankles and then applying tension to squeeze leg muscles. Our staff can provide further instructions at your donation.
- Remain on the donor bed for five minutes after the needle has been removed. Then, if you feel well, sit on the side of bed briefly before standing. Do not stand if you do not feel well.
- Remain in the Refresh area for at least 10 additional minutes and enjoy a drink and snack. TBC recommends you drink water and eat a salty snack unless you are on a sodium-restricted diet.
- While sitting in the Refresh area, cross your ankles and squeeze your leg muscles. This will continue to improve your blood flow after donating.
- After leaving the Refresh area, continue to drink water and, if your diet allows, eat salty snacks or food.
- You will be given a sheet containing post-donation care instructions. Please keep this as a reference should you need guidance after you leave our donation site.
- Use muscle tensing any time you feel anxious, dizzy or faint. If symptoms continue or worsen, lower yourself to the floor, prop feet at a level higher than your heart and ask someone for help.
- If you will be driving after your donation, ensure you feel well before starting your vehicle. Do not drive after donation if you are experiencing any faintness, weakness, dizziness, nausea or similar symptoms.
- Please let us know if you have suggestions to improve our process. These are always welcome.