First-time blood donor checklist

Before you go

• Check the blood bank’s eligibility rules (age, weight, recent illness, travel, and time since your last donation)
• Eat a normal meal and drink plenty of water beforehand
• Get a good night’s sleep
• Bring photo ID and, if you have one, your donor card

Tell the staff about

• Any medicines you take
• Recent illness, tattoos, piercings, or procedures
• Pregnancy or recent childbirth
• Any previous fainting after donating

Afterwards

• Rest for 10–15 minutes and have the refreshments offered
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for the rest of the day
• Drink extra fluids
• Contact the blood bank if you feel unwell later

My notes