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The donation process: what to expect.

The first time you give blood, you must provide your name, address and an official photo I.D. You will then submit to a medical evaluation in which your blood pressure, temperature, pulse, and hemoglobin will be checked. You also will be asked a series of confidential questions about your medical history. This process ensures the safety of both you and the potential recipient of your donation. (CBB will provide you with information about HIV and hepatitis.)

Once you have completed the medical screening, you will enter the collection area. There, collection staff will clean your arm and begin collecting your blood using a sterile needle and bag. The collection process usually takes 7 to 10 minutes. After you are finished, you will be asked to relax for a few minutes with cookies and juice. Your body will replenish the plasma within 24 hours and the red blood cells within a few weeks.

Note: The best way to prevent negative side effects after donating blood is to eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of fluids before donating.

The following are additional things you can do to help your recovery:

Drink plenty of fluids and eat regularly for the next few days.
Avoid bending your arm for 10 minutes.
Avoid heavy lifting for 12 hours.
Do not smoke for one hour after donating blood.
Avoid drinking alcohol until you have eaten a meal.
Leave the adhesive bandage on your arm for two to four hours.
To eliminate bruising or swelling, apply an ice pack for at least 20 minutes and repeat several times the first day. Thereafter, apply warm, moist packs three times daily until the bruise feels better.

If you feel well, you may resume all normal physical activities 30 minutes after donating blood, but avoid strenuous activity for at least 24 hours.