Yes, and I love doing it. They get a little greedy with me because my blood is universal. It doesn't hurt except a pinch, but just turn away and don't look and enjoy the cookies and juice when you are done.
Funny Story:
Once I donated blood and made the awful mistake of staying up half the night the night before and only eating a very small breakfast and that was it for the day. I donated in the evening and I just wanted to get it over with, because I wanted to get home.
They put the needle in and you are supposed to squeeze your fist every so often to pump the blood out. Well, my mind was on other things and I guess I was pumping too fast and before you knew it, I had filled up my bag. They took me over to the cookie table and as I sat there I realized I was freezing. I kept asking people, "Are you cold? I think it's freezing in here."...Everyone said that the temperature seemed fine. Then this nurse asked me, "Joyce are you alright?"....."Yes, I'm fine. I'm just freezing, that's all". Two seconds later she asked it again and out of frustration I yelled "Yes, I'm fiiiiinnnne!!" and BOOM!!! Down I went! Passed out cold right on the table and smashed my cookies with my big head!....LOL I was so embarassed! Just wanted to share one of my dumb stories. Thanks for reading and good luck donating. You'll be doing a wonderful life-saving favor for so many people. I'm proud of ya!
2006-07-28 09:30:16
·
answer #1
·
answered by joycestew2002 2
·
31⤊
4⤋
I've done it a few times and no it doesn't hurt very much. After you have answered all the questions about your health, they test your blood to see if there is enough iron in it (if you are anemic they won't let you donate)they prick your fingertip to get a drop of blood. I think that is the most painful part but don't worry it isn't that bad. Normally you get an anesthetic first which helps. It doesn't take very long and at least you get a cup of tea and a biscuit after wards lol. You should feel very proud of yourself for helping others. Good luck!!
2006-07-28 09:27:30
·
answer #2
·
answered by sooziebaby 2
·
0⤊
0⤋
Yes I've donated.
No it doesn't hurt. The only part that hurts is when they test your blood for iron. They prick your finger, which is very sensitive.
Just make sure you eat a decent breakfast and get up out of the bed or chair very slowly so you don't get dizzy.
2006-07-28 09:22:20
·
answer #3
·
answered by Mister_fin 3
·
0⤊
0⤋
It's hurts a bit when the needle goes in, and then it stings a little for a few seconds. After that, no problem. I agree that the finger prick is worse!
Good for you for donating blood!! I know so many people who can but don't.
2006-07-28 09:24:07
·
answer #4
·
answered by sandand_surf 6
·
0⤊
0⤋
Make sure you get a phlebotomist who knows what she is doing. I don't think it will hurt much. Maybe an initial sting. That's all. It is good of you to want to donate. I do not because my type is very common. I know we have a shortage of o neg where I live.
2006-07-28 09:25:09
·
answer #5
·
answered by Anonymous
·
0⤊
0⤋
yes I did, and no, doesn't really hurt. Make sure you eat a lot of iron before you go, if you have low iron levels they won't let you donate. Also, be sure you eat a good breakfast and don't bring anything heavy with you to carry afterwards. If you do, your arms will bruse
2006-07-28 09:27:24
·
answer #6
·
answered by Sam 1
·
0⤊
0⤋
Yes I have. There is no excruciating pain. All you will feel is a sting in your arm as they insert the needle. Just keep your arm still and make sure you listen to what the nurses are telling you to do. After wards you will feel a slight sting when they take the needle out and your done. Lets just hope you don't faint in the process.
2006-07-28 09:27:21
·
answer #7
·
answered by Gemini23 4
·
0⤊
0⤋
I've tried, but my veins are too small and it doesn't work. My mom and grandfather have both donated gallons of blood. Just think of the good you will be doing for someone else.
2006-07-28 09:21:35
·
answer #8
·
answered by wpililli 2
·
0⤊
0⤋
No, it didn't hurt a lot. But if you are a smoker, wait at least 2 hours before you have a smoke, I did it soon after I gave blood and nearly passed out. Good for you, for doing it though!
2006-07-28 09:27:31
·
answer #9
·
answered by ? 6
·
0⤊
0⤋
It's really not that bad. Let them know that it is your first time and you will probably get a more experienced nurse. While they are taking blood, go to your "happy place" and don't think about it.
Side note--make sure you have had plenty to eat. My friend feinted once since she had not eaten. They will usually give you some orange juice afterward to help.
2006-07-28 09:26:49
·
answer #10
·
answered by led0018 2
·
0⤊
0⤋
I have donated blood often.
Well, they poke you're fingar (little painful), and then when they hook you up to draw blood, the needle hurts a little ... but then there's no pain.
Be sure to tell them this is your first time, and you're scared of pain ... this will probably get you the "Expert" to draw the blood.
2006-07-28 09:23:21
·
answer #11
·
answered by Giggly Giraffe 7
·
0⤊
0⤋