When you come to donate blood, it is important to be in good health and well-rested.

If you have recently been ill or have had any medical conditions, taken medications, traveled abroad, or similar, you may need to wait before donating blood. See more about when you can donate blood.

Before You Come

It is important to eat and drink well 1-2 hours before donating blood.

It is not recommended to engage in exercise or swimming on the same day as donating blood. The fluid loss from that is too much strain on the body in addition to the fluid loss that occurs during blood donation.

The Blood Donation

The entire visit takes 30-40 minutes. During that time, the following happens:

• You will receive an informational booklet about infection prevention and blood donation.

• A nurse will take you to the interview room and thoroughly go over questions regarding your health (pdf). By signing, you confirm that you have answered the questions to the best of your knowledge. Blood pressure and pulse will also be measured.

• A needle will be inserted, and blood samples will be taken. The blood will be tested for HIV and hepatitis B and C viruses. The levels of iron and hemoglobin will also be measured.

• The blood donation itself takes 5-8 minutes, and 450 milliliters will be taken from the upper arm. You will rest on the blood donation bed and receive a ball to squeeze while the blood flows into the bag.

• Everyone is advised to have refreshments in the cafeteria before leaving.

You can cancel your blood donation at any time during the process without giving a reason. The staff at the Blood Bank is bound by confidentiality, and all information is treated as confidential.

After Blood Donation

• Keep the dressing on the puncture site for 4-6 hours to prevent infection.

• Protect your arm during the first few hours, such as not lifting heavy objects. This reduces the risk of bruising or bleeding from the puncture site.

• It is not recommended to engage in exercise or swimming on the same day as donating blood.

• Individuals who engage in high-risk occupations or have risk-related interests are advised to postpone their activities for 12 hours after donating blood. This includes, for example, flight crews, air traffic controllers, divers, and professional drivers.

If any problems or side effects occur after the blood donation, please contact the Blood Bank.

If you become ill within 14 days after donating blood, please contact the Blood Bank.