Spread The Love and Share Your Blood
Are you looking for new ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day - something more meaningful perhaps? The gift of love is the gift of life! What better way to show your love for your community, family and friends – than to donate blood!
This Valentine’s, consider going on a new kind of date; one where you roll up your sleeves, sit back and relax.
The following tips will help you prepare for your blood donation:
- Stay Hydrated Increase your fluid intake a few days before your blood donation. The more water you drink, the plumper your veins are, which will make your blood draw run more smoothly.
- Eat Iron-Rich Foods To replace iron loss during a blood donation, make sure you eat iron-rich foods before and after you donate. Your hemoglobin level plays a role in your ability to give blood and must be at a certain level to donate.
- Sleep Well It’s recommended to get a full night’s sleep of between 7 to 9 hours the night before your donation. This will reduce your risk of feeling unwell after your blood draw.
- Come Prepared Since blood will be drawn from your forearm, wear a shirt with sleeves that can be easily rolled up instead. Don’t forget to bring your ID and previous blood donation card if you have one.
- Are You A Universal Donor? O negative blood is considered the universal blood donor type. Donors of all blood types are needed, if you are not sure of your blood type prior to your donation, you may be notified following your donation after receiving your blood donations card or by creating a profile through the Red Cross Donor App.
Source: MedStar Health