Giving blood is a simple act that can make a major difference for patients in need, and several donation opportunities are coming to Concord and surrounding communities this September.
The American Red Cross is also offering a limited-time incentive for donors. Those who come to give blood by Sept. 20 can receive an American Red Cross x Hello Kitty plush mascot clip and surprise sticker pack, while supplies last.
Pre-Donation Medical Screening
For those who have never donated before, the entire process from arrival to departure typically takes about an hour. The actual blood donation itself takes only about eight to ten minutes on average.
The process begins with registration and a medical screening. Donors will check in using identification and confirm their name, date of birth, address and other basic information. To learn more about acceptable forms of identification, visit the Red Cross website.
Red Cross staff will then check the donor’s temperature, pulse, blood pressure and hemoglobin level. During a private and confidential interview, donors will answer questions about their health history, recent travel, medications and other factors used to assess infectious disease risk.
Donors can also save time by completing a RapidPass online or through the Blood Donor app on the day of their appointment.
The Donation Process
Once a donor is cleared, staff will clean an area of the arm and insert a new sterile needle. The Red Cross describes the feeling as a quick pinch that is over within seconds.
A standard whole blood donation takes approximately eight to ten minutes. During that time, the donor will sit or lie comfortably while approximately one pint of whole blood is collected.
Once the donation is complete, staff will place a bandage on the donor’s arm and provide instructions for after the appointment. Afterwards, donors can have a snack and something to drink in the refreshment area. Most donors remain there for approximately 15 minutes before leaving and continuing with their normal routine.
The Red Cross recommends drinking water before arriving to donate. The organization also encourages donors to share their experience with friends or on social media, which may inspire others to consider donating.
Reasons Someone May Be Unable to Donate
There are several reasons why someone may be temporarily ineligible to give blood.
Those who are sick or do not feel well on the day of their appointment should cancel their donation. According to the Red Cross, donors are generally welcome to return 24 hours after their symptoms have passed.
Most medications will not prevent someone from donating, although certain medications may require a waiting period after the final dose.
Low iron can also prevent someone from donating on a particular day. A low iron deferral does not necessarily mean someone cannot donate in the future, and the Red Cross recommends taking steps to help increase iron levels before trying again.
Travel can affect eligibility as well. Those who have lived in or traveled to a country with a risk of malaria within the past three years may be deferred from donating blood or platelets.
Who Can Blood Donations Help?
Blood donations are used every day to help patients of all ages. According to the American Red Cross, someone in the United States needs blood every two seconds.
Donated blood and blood products can help cancer patients, trauma patients, people with sickle cell disease, burn patients and those living with chronic diseases.
Blood is also needed for patients undergoing heart surgery and organ transplants.
Hello Kitty Donor Gift Available Through Sept. 20
Get your adorable surprise today, while supplies last!
The American Red Cross is partnering with Hello Kitty® and Friends this September to encourage people to give blood and highlight how a small act of kindness can have a lasting impact.
Those who come to give blood, platelets or AB Elite plasma between Sept. 1 and Sept. 20, can receive an exclusive American Red Cross x Hello Kitty plush mascot clip and surprise sticker pack, while supplies last.
The mystery plush clip can be attached to a bag or other belongings, while each surprise sticker pack includes three stickers. Characters include Hello Kitty, My Melody, Pompompurin, Kuromi, Pochacco, and Cinnamoroll.
Upcoming Blood Drives Near Concord
Several blood drives are scheduled in Concord and nearby communities before the promotion ends.
Tuesday, Sept. 15
Manchester Harley-Davidson
100 Technology Dr, Hooksett, NH 03106
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 17
Deerfield Community Church
15 Church St, Deerfield, NH 03037
1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 18
Concord Red Cross Office
2 Maitland St, Concord, NH 03301
12:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Those interested in donating can schedule an appointment through the American Red Cross. Appointment availability may change as each blood drive approaches. Help save lives and make your appointment today at redcrossblood.org.
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