At the beginning of the donation, you will feel a slight pinch from the needle. This sensation will pass quickly and you should feel no discomfort during your donation. Throughout the donation process a qualified phlebotomist will monitor your progress. Only one pint of blood will be collected. An average donor has between 10 and 12 pints of blood.
Most people find it very easy to donate a pint of blood.
Refreshments and Relaxation Following blood donation, you will be encouraged to drink fluids to help your body replace the fluid volume of the pint of blood you have donated. You will also have the chance to eat some cookies or other snacks. You may leave in about 10 minutes after checking out with a staff member. The whole donation process takes no more than an hour and usually you are done even faster. The actual blood donation takes only 5-10 minutes.