Planning to Donate Blood? Keep these Things in Mind

Posted on: Jun 13, 2022 | | Written by:

Planning to Donate Blood? Keep these Things in Mind

Donating blood is not only a noble act, but it is our responsibility to do so as a good human being as this simple act can save many lives. However, there are many apprehensions associated with blood donation because of which many people don’t volunteer to donate blood. The only way to remove such misconceptions is to spread more awareness. You need to know that blood donation, when done with all precautionary measures, doesn’t harm the donor in any way. So, read on to know what you need to do before, during, and after blood donation. Also, keep health insurance handy, so that in case of any unexpected problem, you can get the treatment you need without exhausting your savings. A good insurance plan is important for the recipient too, whether they are undergoing extensive treatment or have met with an accident.

What to do before blood donation

• Whether the donation is at a licensed blood bank or your workplace, ensure a doctor is available.

• Find a time that works best for you.

• Get proper sleep the previous night.

• Avoid alcohol consumption 24 hours before donation.

• Do not smoke for at least 2 hours before donating blood.

• If you are on any medication, check with your doctor if you need to stop before donation.

What to do on the day of your donation

• Eat something substantial and healthy, drink plenty of water (more than your regular intake in a day)/juice 3-4 hours prior to donating blood. Avoid fatty foods and junk.

• After reaching the blood donation site, you will be asked to fill out a form that will have questions about yourself, your medical history, donation history, etc.

• Your body temperature, blood pressure, pulse and haemoglobin content in blood will be checked to ensure that you are healthy and fit enough.

• Inform the doctor if you are taking any medications.

• The process of collecting blood will take about 10 minutes.

• While the blood is being collected, you need to keep pressing the sponge provided for proper circulation of the blood.

What to do after your donation

• After donation, do not get up immediately. Rest for at least 5 minutes to allow the blood flow in the body to normalise.

• After donation, have a snack and a refreshing drink.

• Drink more fluids than usual over the next 24-48 hours.

• Do not take the stairs immediately. Avoid standing for long duration.

• Do not smoke or consume alcohol for at least 24 hours after giving blood. Try to avoid aerated drinks as well.

• If you experience dizziness or any discomfort, lie down till you feel better.

• If there is bleeding from the site where you donated, raise the arm and apply pressure for a few minutes or until the bleeding stops.

• If there is any bruising in that area, apply an ice pack on it.

• Avoid strenuous physical activity or heavy lifting for the next 24 hours.

• Have iron-rich foods to replace the iron lost during donation.

Wrapping it Up

Blood donation is a wonderfully thoughtful act. But before donating blood, it’s important that you know the entire procedure well. You should also be fit and healthy and follow the dos and don’ts after donation. Ensure you have an active health insurance plan too, to safeguard yourself financially in case of a medical emergency.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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