Here are some instructions to follow after your donation:

• Leave your bandage on for a minimum of four hours. If you see any new bleeding, apply pressure for 2-5 minutes and replace the bandage for an additional four hours.
• Eat and drink something before leaving. Drink extra fluids for the next 3 days to help replace the fluid volume lost with your donation. It is especially important to drink extra fluids in the first 4 hours following a donation.
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for twelve hours. This will help prevent bruising, help the needle site heal, and allow your body to readjust to the blood loss.
• If you feel like you are going to faint or if you experience dizziness or lightheadedness, sit down with your head between your knees or lie down with your legs elevated as soon as possible to avoid a potential fall and injury. Remain in this position until the sensation subsides. If symptoms persist, either telephone (see below), return to the donation site, or see your physician.
• If you feel there is a reason your blood should not be used for transfusion, or if you realized after donating you did not meet the screening criteria, please notify the Blood Center as soon as possible so that your blood may be discarded if necessary.

Call the Clinical Program Nurse at (206) 292-2543 or 1-800-366-2831, x2543.