Preparing to donate under the best conditions.
A successful donation begins well before you walk through the center’s doors. A few simple steps are all it takes to ensure that your experience is comfortable and that your blood is collected under the best possible conditions.
The day before your donation
Get enough sleep
A good night’s rest makes for a comfortable donation and a quick recovery.
Stay well hydrated
Drink at least 1.5 liters of water throughout the day.
Eat light, low-fat meals
Avoid very heavy meals, fried foods, and alcohol the day before donating.
Avoid intense exercise
No strenuous physical activity the day before. Get some rest.
The morning of your donation
Eat normally
Do not come on an empty stomach. A light meal before donating is recommended.
Drink a glass of water or fruit juice
Good hydration makes the blood draw easier.
Wear comfortable clothing
Loose or short sleeves that can easily be rolled up to the elbow.
Bring a valid photo ID
Required for your first donation. Keep it with you for every visit.
What happens at the center
Registration and personal information
Upon arrival, a member of our team welcomes you and gathers your information: identity, general health status, and lifestyle. This information is strictly confidential and protected by medical confidentiality. Answer honestly — it is in your interest and in the recipient’s.
Weight check
Your weight is checked to confirm that it meets the minimum requirement for donation, which is 50 kg (110 lbs). This check ensures that the volume collected is appropriate for your body size.
Blood pressure check
A healthcare professional measures your blood pressure. This quick and simple check confirms that your cardiovascular condition is compatible with donating at the time of your visit.
Hemoglobin test
A light prick on your fingertip provides a small drop of blood used to measure your hemoglobin level. This painless test confirms that your level is sufficient before proceeding with the donation.
Blood collection
You are comfortably seated in a chair or reclining bed. A qualified nurse collects approximately 450 ml of blood in 8 to 10 minutes. All equipment is sterile and single-use. You are continuously monitored by the medical team throughout the collection.
Refreshments and departure
At the end of the collection, you are offered a fruit juice before leaving. This recovery moment is important: it allows your body to stabilize. Do not leave the center without having this refreshment.
Taking care of yourself after your donation.
Your body naturally replaces the donated blood volume within a few hours. Here are a few simple tips to help you enjoy a smooth recovery.
In the first few hours
- Keep the bandage on the collection site for at least 2 hours.
- Drink plenty of fluids: water, fruit juice. Replace the volume that was drawn.
- Avoid carrying heavy objects with the arm used for the donation, and avoid any intense physical activity for 24 hours.
- If you feel dizzy, sit down immediately, lean your head forward, and breathe slowly.
In the following days
- Continue to stay well hydrated throughout the day.
- Eat normally, a balanced meal helps your body rebuild its reserves.
- If you continue to feel unwell, contact the PNST center where you donated.
Did you know?
Your blood is tested and qualified in the PNST's laboratories after your donation. If any result requires follow-up, the center will contact you in full confidentiality to guide you.