According to the American Red Cross, every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood, adding up to more than 38,000 blood donations needed every day. Since blood cannot be manufactured artificially, donations are needed from generous individuals.
The donation process itself may seem intimidating, but is safe and follows a simple four-step procedure.
- Registration: This step is self-explanatory. Register for a blood drive or make an appointment to donate at a blood center. Donors are required by law to be at least 17 years old and healthy, which leads to step 2.
- Medical history: The organization hosting the blood drive will ask of any illnesses which may affect your blood. A brief examination will be conducted to measure temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and hemoglobin in order to ensure it is safe for you to donate. Don’t get discouraged if you are unable to donate–there are other options available for you to make a difference.
- Donation: The actual donating part of the process will only take about 10-12 minutes, during which about one pint of blood is donated.
- Refreshments: You should add extra liquids to your diet after donating and eat healthy foods to replenish your body. It takes time for your body to adjust after donating, so use extra caution with any potentially hazardous situations.
Donating blood is a relatively simple process, as is setting up a Wisconsin life insurance policy with us. Visit the American Red Cross’s Web site to find a blood drive near you, and contact us to learn more about our policy options.