Take care of yourself when you donate.

Thank you for giving life to more than 100,000 of your family, friends and neighbors, every year. You can ensure that you have the best possible experience when you donate by observing a few simple guidelines.

On the day you donate:

• Get a good night’s sleep.
• Have a good breakfast or lunch.
• Drink extra water and fluids. (Avoid tea, coffee, or other beverages with caffeine) 
• Eat iron-rich foods - red meat, fish, poultry or liver, beans, iron-fortified cereals, raisins and prunes.
• Avoid unhealthy foods, such as hamburgers, fries, or ice creams before donating. These types of foods can altar tests performed on donated blood, causing the blood to be discarded. 

During the Donation:

• Wear clothing with sleeves that can be raised above the elbow.
• Show the staff any "good veins" that have been used successfully in the past.
• Relax. Practice any technique that works for you, including deep breathing, meditation or reading.
• Take the time to enjoy a snack and a drink in the refreshments area immediately after donating. 

        After Donation:

• Rehydrate by drinking plenty of fluids over the next 24-48 hours.
• Avoid strenuous physical activity or heavy lifting for about five hours after donation.
• If you feel light headed, lie down, preferably with feet elevated, until the feeling passes.
• In rare cases when bleeding occurs after removing the bandage, apply pressure to the site and raise your arm for 3-5 minutes; if bleeding or bruising occurs under the skin, apply a cold pack to the area periodically during the first 24 hours. 
• If for any reason, something doesn’t feel right, call the American Red Cross toll free number provided to you after your donation.
• Enjoy the good feeling that comes with knowing that you may have saved as many as three lives.
   

By following these suggestions, you will help make your donation as safe and successful as possible for patients who count on your blood. On behalf of the patients whose lives you will save, thank you for your interest in donating blood to the American Red Cross. Your gift is priceless!