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Most people can donate blood. Men can donate blood every 12 weeks and women can donate every 16 weeks. We should ensure the safety of both the person who is donating blood and the patient who receives the blood. Blood donation is a simple process and saves many lives. Donor’s blood is collected and can be used to treat patients who are in need.
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The following factors determine the person’s capability of donating blood:
Before donating blood, individuals should be aware of the eligibility criteria to donate blood and check with the health personnel about existing medical conditions that may affect their suitability to give blood. Blood volume estimation is required for women under the age of 20 who weighs under 65 kg or 10st 3lb (or) if the height is under 168 cm or 5' 6".
The information about the blood safety is listed below. The following common conditions do disqualify the person from donating blood as the donated blood may cause harm to the receiver:
A consultation is also required to ensure the eligibility of the person. Common eligibility questions include receiving treatment, taking medication, cancer, received blood, blood products or organs, illness, pregnancy, tattoos, and traveling outside of the country. One may donate blood if consumed a drug prescribed by the doctor. It is advised not to donate blood or platelets at least for 12 months immediately after having sexual contact with an individual who may be at risk of the conditions listed above.
The following are the basic steps to prepare for donating blood:
The blood collectors ensure it does not take more than an hour for a blood donation appointment. You will be asked to read a welcome leaflet that explains the importance of blood safety. Instructions tend to vary according to each venue; hence, it is important to read. Fluids will often be provided before you donate blood, which will help you to feel better after the blood donation.
A drop of blood will be tested to check the hemoglobin levels. If one is not eligible to donate blood, the patient will be notified of the reason why and may be called for another appointment if they will become eligible at a later point. If an individual is eligible to donate blood, they will be asked to provide personal details such as name, address, and date of birth. Donor’s forearm will be pressurized with a cuff.
Donated blood will be transported to the blood banks where it will be tested before providing it to hospitals. Donor's body will be able to restore the donated blood.
Patients should be advised to rest for a while after donating blood to allow their body to recover. The sterile bandage should remain in place for at least 30 minutes after donating the blood.
The following advice is useful for patients after giving blood:
If patients become unwell within 2 weeks after donating blood (except cold or cold sore) without a reason for your illness, the blood donation venue should be contacted to make necessary steps to not transfuse the donated blood to patients.