Many people know how important donating blood can be. The blood phlebotomists extract can save lives, help cure the sick and so much more. This being so, many people are willing and ready to donate blood.

However, before you donate, there are same facts that you should know to keep you healthy and help the donating process run smoothly for you and the phlebotomist.

Phlebotomy classes teach their students how to help donors prepare to give blood. Here are some of the tips that are often shared in these classes to help you before, during and after your blood donation.

Before Your Blood Donation:

• Make sure you have enough iron in your diet. Iron rich foods include, but are not limited to, meat, beans and spinach. Also, make sure you eat a healthy meal before you donate.
• Make sure you get plenty of rest the night before you donate.
• Drink an extra 16 oz. of water.
• Make sure you have a valid ID.

During Your Blood Donation:

• If you decided to wear clothes with longs sleeves, make sure the sleeves can be easily rolled above the elbow.
• Let your Phlebotomist know if one arm is better than the other for drawing blood.
• Remember to relax. You can listen to music or read during the donation. If it helps, you can talk to other donors as well.

After Your Blood Donation:

• Avoid alcohol for the next 24 hours.
• Avoid exercise or intense activity for the rest of the day.
• To avoid a rash, clean the area around the bandage with soap and water.