World Blood Donor Day: 4 Mistakes to avoid when donating blood

Every year, the World Health Organization observes the World Blood Donor Day on 14th June to thank all the voluntary blood donors who have regularly donated blood and contributed to blood supply for thousands of patients in need. The efficacy of medical care is not possible without sufficient blood transfusion services.

Medical experts from the pharma industry in India assert that a single blood donation can save up to 3 human lives. Moreover, doctors also use individual components such as red blood cells, platelets, white blood cells, etc. from the donated blood to save millions of lives every year.

Today, there are a lot of people who are willing to donate blood. However, lack of knowledge about blood donation is a key factor that stops them from doing so as they are still concerned about the safety of the process. According to health experts, blood donation is an easy and simple process if you ensure to take all precautionary measures.

Here are some common mistakes people should avoid when donating blood:

1. Not doing the homework

There is some homework that you need to do before donating blood. This includes eating something substantial minimum 3 hours before blood donation, having a sound sleep of 7-8 hours the previous night, and not consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours before donating blood.

2. Not taking a medical examination

For donating blood, it is extremely important for you to be healthy and have sufficient hemoglobin levels. Moreover, you should weigh more than 45 kgs and your blood pressure should be normal. Any dormant health conditions like diabetes, iron deficiency or a previous surgery will determine your potential of donating blood.

3. Not filling the donor form

Filling the donor form before going ahead with blood donation is highly essential. There are some important questions mentioned in the form which need to be answered honestly for ensuring safe blood donation. This data is to determine your fitness levels and is kept completely confidential.

4. Not taking refreshments after blood donation

You should always have juice, biscuits, bananas, etc. after donating blood. These food items are usually made available at the blood donation camp and will prevent you from feeling uneasy or weak. Also, you should avoid any physically demanding work after donating blood.

Furthermore, you should take rest after blood donation and share your experience with people around. This will encourage more people to voluntarily come forward to donate blood and avoid blood crisis, thereby prevention a large number of death every year.