What Happens During A Donation?
Before you donate . . .
- You will register with the receptionist. A picture I.D. or your Shepeard Donor Card is required for this process
- You will complete a donor record form, which includes personal and health information
- You will receive information about HIV/AIDS
- You will be asked to sign your donor record form, which states that you answered all health questions truthfully and that you understand the HIV/AIDS information
- A drop of blood from your finger is taken to determine your iron count. Additionally, a nurse will check your blood pressure, temperature and heart beat
During your donation . . .
- Your screening process is now complete and the nurse will ask you which arm you prefer to use for the donation process
- A staff member will clean that spot on the arm and insert a sterile, non-reusable needle
- Important note: All equipment is pre-packaged, sterile, and used only once, it is impossible to get AIDS from donating blood
- It takes about 10 minutes to complete your donation
- Slightly less than a pint of blood is taken (Most adults have between 10 and 12 pints)
- Three small test tubes of blood are used for typing and testing purposes
After your donation . . .
- You may rest and enjoy refreshments (orange juice, soda, cookies) in the canteen area
- Your body replaces fluid lost during the donation within 24-48 hours
- You are eligible to make your next volunteer donation after 8 weeks