Blood Donation : Some Facts

What is Blood and its quantity in our body?

Blood is the red coloured fluid circulating in the body. Blood has different Components RBc, WBc, Flatlets & Clotting factors. It transports oxygen from lungs to all parts of body via Red blood cells. White blood cells contributes to body's deference against infection. Platelets and clotting factors prevent bleeding from site of injury.

On an average 5 to 6 liters of blood is present in every adult.

Why should I donate blood?

Blood is the only substitute of blood. Blood donation is a noble, selfless service to another human being.

Who can donate Blood ?

All healthy persons between the ages of 18 to 60 years can donate blood provided their weight is more than 45 kg & haemoglobin is more than 12.5gm/dl. Blood is taken only after medical examination of the donor.

How much time does it take to donate blood?

Actual blood donation process takes only 5 to 8 minutes. But the total time is 20th to 25 minutes which includes post donations rest.

How much blood is taken during Blood donation?

Only 350 to 450 ml of blood is taken at a time depending upon the body weight of donor.

What happens to my blood in blood bank?

The sample taken is tested for diseases like HIV l&ll, Hepatitis B & C, Syphilis, Malaria. It is typed for Blood group(A,B,AB,O ,Rh factor). It is separated into components.

How long does my body take to replace the blood I donate?

Blood volume is replaced within 48 hrs. Platelets are replaced within 72 hrs. Plasma proteins are replaced within 12 days .Iron stores are replaced within 8 wks.

Will blood donation harm me?

No, the needle used for donating blood is sterile and designed for single use.

How often can I donate blood ?

You can donate blood once every three months

How many patients can benefit from one donation ?

A single donation helps at least three lives. Blood is separated into red cells & these components are used for different patients, plasma platelets or cryoprecipitate.

Do I have to take any precautions, medications or extra diet after blood donation?

You require only 15 to 20 minutes of rest after donation.However avoid exertion and consume plenty of fluid.

Will the same blood which i donate be transfused to patients?

No, blood is donated as replacement for the blood issued from bio bank. Transfusion from blood relatives should be avoided as it cau; the risk of transfusion associated graft versus host disease .Al transfusion of blood from husband to wife causes increased risk hemolytic disease of new born.

When should I donate blood for my patient?>

For routine transfusions blood has to be donated before the surge In emergencies blood is issued but that has to be replaced as early possible.

As a voluntary donor you can donate anytime within donation hours.