Blood Drive FAQ

WHY SOULD I DONATE BLOOD? 

• You save several lives. 
• You get a short nap.
• You get a free lunch. 
• You learn needles aren't scary.  ---  Where is the downside? 

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER MY DONATION?

• After the mandatory 15 minute R&R at the canteen (the free lunch) even first time donors are usually able to return to normal activities with no problems. Take a bottle of water and some energy food from the canteen and administer liberally. 
• A sudden loss of blood occasionally causes a stimulation of the brain that can cause light-headedness or an endorphin high depending on the person. (I am ready to take on the nearest tiger.)  If light-headed, water and rest with head low usually solves the problem. If it lasts for more than a few minutes send for help from the donation center. 
• People will ask about the Coban wrap on your elbow.  Tell them that you just saved a few lives and that they can too with a wave at the drive table.

HOW LONG DOES A DONATION TAKE?

• The actual donation takes 5-10 minutes normally.   
• Preparation and paperwork is about a half hour.  
• Save time in the donation process by filling out the eligibility questionaire (when available) on your mobile device on the day you plan to donate.
• The 15 minute free lunch makes an hour a good bet.  Double Red and apheresis take longer but you already know that.

CAN I DONATE? 

• Your local blood center or Red Cross Web page usually has most concerns covered and a number to call for special concerns.  E.g. http://www.redcrossblood.org/donating-blood/eligibility-requirements/eligibility-criteria-topic
• https://www.vitalant.org/Donate/Donor-Eligibility.aspx

RECENT ELIGIBILITY CHANGES.

• Tattoos, acupuncture and piercings: no deferral in many states for licensed single use facilities.  One year otherwise.
• Medically controlled diabetes and high blood pressure: generally no deferral. 
• MSM - Men who have had sex with other men and partners: One year deferral since last contact.  NO LONGER LIFETIME!!!!  YAY!!! You are welcome.   A long hard battle by many friends. 
• MAD COWS - Military and residents in UK late 80s and certain others in Europe at that time are still deferred.  We are working on it.  Note that blood drives always need non-donor volunteers. 

LEGALESE 

• If you have been told by a blood collection agency or other medical professional not to donate blood, get clearance from that professional before scheduling an appointment.  Some changes in eligibility have been noted above.