Giving Blood Platelets
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Today, I gave blood platelets.
The process began like giving any blood donation, paperwork and all. I had to answer questions about my international travels to the Philippines and the Bahamas and my recent inoculations. Afterwards, I was set to go.
They comfortably seated me next to an apheresis apparatus with a pillow and blanket. The needle was inserted and I began the 109-minute wait.
It was cold. The cycle of drawing and returning your blood has a cooling effect from the exposure outside of one's body. Over time, I acclimated to the temperature change but the process of apheresis may also cause tingling sensations throughout the body. The tingling is treated with Tums to proactively prevent regurgitation of one's most recent meal.
My advice? Make sure to use the restroom before needle stick. I ended up having to quit early because I drank so much water in order to counteract dehydration. As well, giving blood makes me plain tired. If you're giving blood, plan to take a nap after giving.
I felt good about my donation today. I look forward to giving again soon.
For more information, please visit the American Red Cross.
[/caption]Today, I gave blood platelets.
The process began like giving any blood donation, paperwork and all. I had to answer questions about my international travels to the Philippines and the Bahamas and my recent inoculations. Afterwards, I was set to go.
They comfortably seated me next to an apheresis apparatus with a pillow and blanket. The needle was inserted and I began the 109-minute wait.
It was cold. The cycle of drawing and returning your blood has a cooling effect from the exposure outside of one's body. Over time, I acclimated to the temperature change but the process of apheresis may also cause tingling sensations throughout the body. The tingling is treated with Tums to proactively prevent regurgitation of one's most recent meal.
My advice? Make sure to use the restroom before needle stick. I ended up having to quit early because I drank so much water in order to counteract dehydration. As well, giving blood makes me plain tired. If you're giving blood, plan to take a nap after giving.
I felt good about my donation today. I look forward to giving again soon.
For more information, please visit the American Red Cross.