Tips for blood donation
Blood Assurance wants to help make your donation experience as pleasant as possible! Below we have included tips for before and after your donation. If you have any additional questions, please contact us.
SLEEP
It is important to get a good night's sleep the night before you donate. Make sure you donate when you are feeling healthy and rested.
EAT
Maintain a significant level of iron in your diet by eating iron rich foods such as red meat, pork, poultry, seafood, beans, dark green leafy vegetables, iron-fortified cereals, breads, pastas and dried fruit. Be sure to eat a meal in the four hours prior to your donation.
DRINK
Drink plenty of fluids including juice or water. It is a good idea to drink more water than your usual intake on the day of your donation. Donors are also asked to avoid caffeine.
AVOID
Prior to a donation, donors are asked to avoid alcoholic beverages and avoid caffeine. Donors are also asked to avoid foods that are high in fat.
WHAT TO WEAR
Wear loose fitting clothing with sleeves that can be easily rolled up over the elbow.
ASK QUESTIONS
Feel free to ask questions! Donor Care Specialists are ready and available to answer any questions and address any concerns you may have throughout the process.
RELAX
Take this time to relax. Many regular donors suggest meditating, listening to music or reading while donating. Our Donor Care Specialists will provide you with snacks and drinks throughout the process.