Giving Blood

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.

Credit: Neykor Chonrossainatee/Shutterstock.com

Who can donate blood?

The following factors determine the person’s capability of donating blood:

• Generally fit and healthy
• Weighing more than 50 kg or 7 stone 12 lbs
• Age between 17 and 66 (it is acceptable at the age of 70 if one has donated blood before)
• Age above 70 and have donated in the last two years.

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".

Who should not donate blood?

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:

• planning for an HIV, Human T-cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV) or Hepatitis test
• with HIV positive
• a hepatitis B carrier
• a hepatitis C carrier
• with HTLV positive
• already treated for syphilis
• ever worked as commercial sex worker
• ever injected with drugs in the recent past or long ago

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.

How to donate blood?

The following are the basic steps to prepare for donating blood:

1. Ensure your eligibility to donate blood.
2. Fix an appointment in advance.
3. Register as a blood donor at the venue or online.
4. Follow the recommended preparations before 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.

Procedures involved in donating blood