I'm going to give blood for the first time?

Question

I'm kinda nervous cos i heard that it hurts a bit, how can i calm my nerves?

Answer 1

I was quite nervous also, but honestly it's just the slightest pinch. I've had shots that hurt more. Try not to think about it too much, and if blood makes you sick, don't watch. You could always bring a friend to hold your hand.

Answer 2

Try not to be nervous because the pain is negligible. The only bit that hurts a little is when they put the needle in, but certainly no more than having an injection, and probably less than that (in my experience). Once that's in, you just lie back and relax. I have to add that I never watch when they put the needle in and I never watch the blood going into the bag! Don't do what I did the first time I gave blood though - when it was over and they'd taken the needle out, etc., I just got up and walked out! I had somebody chasing me down the street to bring me back - coz they give you biscuits and a cup of tea while you have a rest. This is just to make sure that you're perfectly OK before they let you go. Well done, - giving your blood could help save someone's life, so if you do feel apprehensive, just remember that.

Answer 3

Don't be nervous. The nurses are well-trained and they will tell you what they are doing for each step. They will also answer any questions that you have. Usually, everyone is very helpful and understanding with first-time donors.
If you feel youself getting antsy, just try and relax. Take a deep breath and close your eyes if you need. Getting worked up will only make the process difficult. If you are not fond of needles, it's best to look away as they put it in (it can be intimidating). If you are uncomfortable at any time during the donation, let your nurse know.
You'll do fine! Good luck!

Answer 4

Well done...... its a great feeling afterwards to think that someones life may be saved by your donation. The 'pain' if you can call it that is about the same as pinching yoursel f on the tender skin on the inside of your arm, so do that to yourself a couple of times on the way & thats about as bad as it gets!!! Not sure if they still offer it but you could ask for a small local anethsetic, but then that means 2 injections, so dont worry any more, just go, get in there have a nice quiet 10 minutes lying down & then get stuck into the tea & choccy biscuits.........good luck ( tho you wont need it, honestly! )

Answer 5

When giving blood, you can ask for local anaesthetic to be applied to the part of your skin where they insert the needle. Doing that makes the insertion so that it can barely be felt. If you make sure to tell the nurses that, you can calm your nerves by knowing that you've done as much as you can to minimise the pain. People often say that the hardest bit is the initial blood test where a tiny needle pricks you on a finger of your choice, a sensation which is often compared to a "sharp scratch". My personal opinion is that it's right.

And well done, you, for giving blood! Enjoy your well-deserved smugness afterwards :-)

Answer 6

First of all, WELL DONE !!! and thank you on behalf of all those who will benefit from your very kind donation.................Eat an apple beforehand, it takes ages to digest, keeping your gastric juices occupied !!!!! hence NO BUTTERFLIES....................
The atmosphere is so laid back in the centre, that you will find it very easy to relax. Talk to the people you meet waiting there, while you wait your turn, after filling in a form about your various previous illnesses and so on................ those that have given blood before will confirm to you that there is no PAIN, just GAIN for those who receive your blood. It MAY be felt as a light scratch, but that is about all !!!! Talk to the Nurse during the procedure (most people find a subject) and don't watch, if you are anxious !!!!! After the procedure you wait for 10 - 15 mins. and have a cup of tea/coffee and usually a biscuit. Now isn't that worth it???? Good Luck and thanks again on behalf of all those who will benefit.............By the way, did you get time off school/ work? That's worth it too..............isn't it?

Answer 7

Just don't think about it. It really just feels a little uncomfortable, but not real painful. Just relax. It doesn't take but maybe a few minutes. Drink plenty of juice and water afterwards. You will be fine and you are doing a good thing.

Answer 8

Good for you!I have donated 14 times up to now,its not very painful and you get to have lie down!Just think of all the people you will be helping. Good luck and well done.

Answer 9

i was the same the first time i did it, but afterwards you'll wonder what all the fuss is about. you'll feel them put the needle in your arm, this smarts for about a second, then nothing. it'a actually a quite relaxing five minutes, i've dozed off a couple of times. afterwards have a nice cup of tea, you'll be fine.

Answer 10

It really doesn't hurt. Just tell them it's your first time and they'll make you comfortable. Kudos to you for giving blood!