Every day, blood donors help patients of all ages: accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, and those battling cancer. In fact, every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Here are just a few of their stories. 

Members of Phi Theta Kappa are proud to support the cause for blood donations and will be hosting a blood drive on Monday, April 13 and Tuesday April 14 from 10-3 in the University Center Student Lounge​.

Information about the blood donation process is listed below. Please note, wait times may vary depending on the number of donors and volunteers present on the day of the event. 

 

THE DONATION PROCESS: The life-giving blood donation process from the time you arrive until the time you leave takes about an hour. The donation itself is only about 8-10 minutes on average. Only sterile, sealed and completely disposable materials are used once and then safely discarded. 

REGISTRATION: We’ll sign you in and go over basic eligibility. You’ll be asked to show ID, such as your driver’s license. You’ll read some information about donating blood. Staff will ask you for your complete address. Your address needs to be complete (including PO Box, street/apartment number) and the place where you will receive your mail 8 weeks from donation.

MINI-PHYSICAL  During the physical, you’ll answer a few questions about your health history and places you’ve traveled, during a private and confidential interview.  You’ll tell us about any prescription and/or over the counter medications that may be in your system. The staff will check your temperature, pulse, blood pressure and hemoglobin level. 

BLOOD DONATION Staff from the American Red Cross will cleanse an area on your arm and insert a brand new sterile needle for the blood draw. (This feels like a quick pinch and is over in seconds.) A whole blood donation takes about 8-10 minutes, during which you’ll be seated comfortably or lying down. Your blood is drawn by a skilled medical professional using new, sterile and disposable materials.  When approximately a pint of whole blood has been collected, the donation is complete and a staff person will place a bandage on your arm.

JUICE AND SNACKS FOR ALL! After donating blood, you’ll have a snack and something to drink in the refreshment area. You’ll leave after 10-15 minutes and continue your normal routine.

HOW OFTEN CAN YOU DONATE BLOOD? Your body quickly replenishes any blood that you donate. In fact, a healthy adult can donate whole blood every 56 days - or approximately 8 weeks. 

WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU: When donating blood, please be sure to bring a current photo ID, preferably a valid Driver License. If you don't have one of these, another form of ID with your photo on it is necessary. 

WHAT TO EAT BEFORE DONATING BLOOD: Before making a blood donation, you should eat at your regular mealtimes and drink plenty of liquids. You might also increase your consumption of "iron rich" foods a few days before making a blood donation because only donors with good iron levels are able to give the gift of life. 

If you would like further information about this event please contact [email protected].  Thank you for your support! 
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