The blood will not be used if tests show that the person may be a carrier for these illnesses or other viruses. Many blood banks have adopted a program for donors who are at risk for AIDS to give blood that is used for research purposes. This blood is not part of the general blood supply for donation to the public. Blood is usually donated while lying down. The skin on an arm is cleaned with an antiseptic and a new, sterile, non-reusable needle is used to withdraw about a pint of blood.
Most people feel fine during and after blood donation.
A few people may feel dizzy or faint. Juice and snacks are provided by the staff to help the donor's body adjust to the change in blood volume. Bruising at the blood draw site may occur. It takes the body less than 24 hours to replenish the lost fluid and 6 weeks to replace red blood cells. Giving blood is safe for the donor and can be life-saving to the receiver.