1Registration
When you arrive at the blood bank or camp, the first step is registration. You will be asked to fill out a donor registration form with your basic details (name, age, address, and contact information) and a brief medical history questionnaire. This ensures your blood is traceable and safe for a recipient.
2Medical Screening (Mini-Physical)
Before you can donate, a medical officer will conduct a quick, confidential screening. They will:
- Check your weight (must be at least 45 kg).
- Measure your blood pressure and pulse.
- Perform a quick finger-prick test to check your haemoglobin (Hb) levels (must be ≥ 12.5 g/dL).
3The Donation Process
Once cleared, you will be escorted to a comfortable donor bed. A phlebotomist will clean your arm and insert a sterile, single-use needle. You might feel a quick pinch, but the donation itself is painless. This process usually takes only 8 to 12 minutes to collect around 350-450ml of blood. You can relax, listen to music, or talk to the staff during this time.
4Rest and Recovery
After the needle is removed, a bandage will be applied to your arm. You will be asked to rest on the bed for a few minutes before moving to the refreshment area. Here, you will be provided with water, juice, and a light snack to help your body adjust to the slight decrease in fluid volume. After resting for 15-20 minutes, you are free to leave!