Ensure you get a good night’s sleep, resting for at least 5 hours.
Feel comfortable and healthy, and be ready to donate blood. If you are taking any medications, inform the doctor/nurse conducting the health screening.
Have a regular meal before donating, avoiding high-fat foods such as pork knuckle rice, chicken rice, coconut curries, and desserts, as well as high-fat drinks like sweetened condensed milk and cream, for at least 6 hours prior to donation. These foods and drinks can make the plasma cloudy and unsuitable for patient treatment.
Drink approximately 300-500 cc of water 30 minutes before donating, which helps maintain good blood circulation and reduces the risk of fainting after donation.
Avoid alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours before donating.
Refrain from smoking for 1 hour before and after donating to allow your lungs to function properly.
During Blood Donation
Wear clothing with sleeves that are not too tight and can be rolled up at least 3 inches above the elbow. Choose the arm with a clearly visible vein, ensuring the skin in that area is free from rashes or bruises. If you are allergic to antiseptics like alcohol, inform the staff beforehand.
Do not chew gum or suck on candy while donating.
Squeeze the rubber ball consistently during donation to facilitate blood flow.
If you experience any unusual symptoms during the donation, such as palpitations, dizziness, faintness, numbness, or abnormal pain, notify the staff immediately.
After Blood Donation
Rest in bed for 5 minutes; if you feel fine, get up and sit for an additional 10-15 minutes while drinking a beverage and having a snack.
Increase your water intake for the next 24 hours.
Take one iron supplement daily after meals until finished to replace iron lost during donation, ensuring you can donate regularly.
Avoid activities involving heights, as they may cause dizziness or fainting.
Do not use the arm that was used for donation for 24 hours.
Stay away from crowded and stuffy places, and avoid activities involving speed, height, depth, or machinery.
Refrain from vigorous exercise that causes sweating for 24 hours.