Lyriq Forde

A graphic of Moostipher (The Muse’s mascot) getting his blood drawn.

NHS has partnered with OneBlood to host a New Years-themed blood drive Thursday, Jan. 15. If you plan on giving blood, make sure to follow these simple steps in order to stay safe and healthy throughout the process.

BEFORE:

• Eat iron-rich foods, such as red meat, fish, poultry, beans, spinach, and iron-fortified cereals, to avoid feeling weak, dizzy, or faint after donating. Additionally, pairing iron-rich foods with foods that feature vitamin C will help your body absorb the iron more easily.
• Get plenty of sleep the night before, as rest will reduce your risk of feeling dizzy or faint, keep you alert, and help your body cope with the stress.
• Wear a short sleeve shirt or a top that can be easily rolled up.
• Don’t forget to check if any medications you are taking or you recently took prohibit you from donating blood. Avoid aspirin for at least two days before, since it may interfere with your platelets’ ability to form clots.
• Organize a safe ride home for after your donation. You may still feel dizzy and lightheaded after giving blood and not be able to drive.

AFTER:

• Wear your backpack on the non-donating arm, making sure to put no pressure or weight on the arm that just lost blood to avoid unnecessary strain.
• Drink an extra four to eight glasses of fluids for 48 hours after donating.
• Avoid strenuous physical activity or heavy lifting for at least a day.
• Try not to take the bandage wrapped around your arm off for at least two to three hours.
• If bruising occurs, apply a cold compress to the area for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off during the first 24 hours.

Lastly, tell others about what you did! Blood donors can help accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, those battling cancer, and more. In fact, the American Red Cross finds that every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. However, in order to provide for others, you must first go through the process safely and cautiously — so keep these tips in mind.

Resources:

Blood Donor Basics | ImpactLife

Types of Blood Donation | Vitalant

10 tips for conquering first-time fears of donating blood