You can give blood and help give others a future if: - You are at least 16 years old (with the written consent of parent(s))
- You weigh at least 110 pounds
- You meet a few other requirements:
- You are generally healthy
- You have taken your last dose of the prescribed course of antibiotics and are asymptomatic
- You may donate 4 weeks from your last dose if on an antibiotic simply for acne
- You haven't had a tattoo within the last 12 months
- You haven't taken Accutane for the last month (30 days)
The entire blood donation process takes just a little over an hour. Before you sign in, you must read "What You Must Know When Giving Blood," some information about what condition would prevent you from safely donating blood for someone else. Then you sign in, complete a health history questionnaire, and receive a mini-physical that includes taking your blood pressure, temperature, pulse (heart rate) and a hematocrit test. These things all help ensure it is safe for you to donate today. If everything is normal, you proceed to the donation area. First, the spot on your arm where you will donate will be scrubbed with a sterile solution. Then you actually give your lifesaving blood -- your donation will take seven to 10 minutes. A brand new needle and a brand new collection bag are used for every blood donation, so it is impossible to catch anything when you give blood. After you donate you will go to the refreshment area, where you will be given water, juice and some snacks to replenish your fluids and energy before you leave to return to your daily activities. It's that easy! The donation process is that simple, but patients who receive your blood components benefit so much! When you give blood, you truly are giving someone else the gift of a future. Call 1-800-GIVE LIFE to make an appointment.
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