How To Make Giving Blood Easier

Whether it’s a fear of needles or first-time donor jitters, these blood donation tips can help make your donation a success.

Use RapidPass^®

RapidPass^® can help save time during your next blood or platelet donation. After you sign up for your appointment, on the day of donation, visit our RapidPass page or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App to complete the simple process. Get started with some initial information, read through the pre-donation materials, answer your health history questions and print, download or email your RapidPass® to yourself. Be sure to bring it with you to your donation appointment.

If this is your first time donating blood with the Red Cross, take a minute to learn about the donation process. Knowing what to expect at your appointment can help alleviate nerves. The actual donation only takes about eight to ten minutes, but you can expect to be at the donation center for about an hour. Make a playlist of your favorite songs to help you relax while you wait or ask a friend to join you.

The day of your appointment have a healthy meal and drink an extra 16 oz. of water before you go to the donation center. If you have hard-to-find veins, drinking extra water is especially helpful as it increases the volume of blood, hydrates body tissue and makes veins easier to spot. Eating and drinking beforehand also reduces the chances of feeling faint when donating blood. There will be water and snacks available to you while you wait for your appointment.

Blood will be drawn from your forearm, so wear a shirt with sleeves that can be rolled up above your elbow. Since you’ll be seated or lying down during your donation, you’ll want to wear comfortable clothing. You may also want to bring a jacket to stay warm while you wait.

If you are afraid of needles, you may feel your anxiety level rising as you anticipate the needle stick. Let our staff know that you are feeling nervous. They’ll do their best to encourage you to relax and provide a stress-free experience. Avoid looking at the needle site, and distract yourself by chatting with staff or other donors.

If you accidentally catch a glimpse of the blood bag or the needle site, it may help to think about the purpose of your donation. You have nearly 10 pints of blood in your body, but only about one pint is taken during your donation. One blood donation may save more than one life.

After your donation, take a few minutes to enjoy some complimentary snacks and refreshments. You’ve faced your fear. Snap a selfie and share your accomplishment with your friends and family. Your courage may inspire them to donate as well. And before you leave, remember to schedule your next donation appointment!