What's the process?
Before you donate
You’ll need to bring some ID with you. It could be a driver’s licence, passport, or your digital donor card in our Donate Blood app. You can use a combination of things for ID, as long as all up you can show any three of these:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Home address
- Signature
- Photo.
While you’re at it, write down or remember any medications you're taking so you can let our team know.
Don’t worry if you’re feeling a bit nervous — it’s completely normal.
One of the most important things you can do to look after your own health is to drink lots of fluids and have plenty to eat.
- Drink plenty of fluids — 10 glasses for men or 8 glasses for women.
- Try to get a good night’s sleep.
- Drink 750mL (that’s 3 good-sized glasses) of fluids.
- Have something savoury to eat.
- Avoid strenuous exercise.
At the donor centre
When you walk in the door, you'll be greeted by our reception staff member. They’ll check your valid ID. This is probably the best time to speak up if you need your parking validated.
Then, you’ll take a seat and fill out the confidential donor questionnaire they give you. (If you'd like to see the questionnaire in advance, here's a sample.)
In a private room, a trained staff member will go over your questionnaire answers with you and ask some questions to check that you’re fine to donate.
They’ll give you a quick ‘finger prick’ test to check your haemoglobin (a protein which contains iron) and test your blood pressure.
Sit back and relax on a comfy couch. You can read, chat with our team or other donors, or just enjoy some quiet time.
We’ll keep a close eye on you the whole time to make sure you’re OK. Talk to a staff member if you feel uncomfortable or worried at any point.
Congratulations! Your donation is done. Now it's time to celebrate.
After you donate
It’s tempting to hurry over to the refreshments area to have your pick of the snacks, but take your time before you get up. It’s important that you rest for a few minutes in the donor chair.
When you’re ready, you can head over to the refreshments area to relax for another 15 minutes. Find your favourite snack, have a cool drink, maybe make a cup of tea, and enjoy.
Make sure you grab a juice or water on your way out.
Drink plenty more fluids. Aim for another 3 good-sized glasses in the first 3 hours.
Take a seat when you can. Your body needs a bit of time to recover, so try to avoid spending too much time on your feet.
Try not to overheat. Some days it’s tricky, but do your best to avoid hot showers, rushing around, standing in direct sun and hot drinks.
Stay away from alcoholic drinks.
Eat regular meals — you’ll need your energy.
Avoid strenuous exercise (like cycling, jogging or going to the gym) or hazardous activities, including activities or jobs where public safety may be affected. If you’re not sure whether that applies to your job, check with your boss, donate outside of work hours, or bring it up in your pre-donation interview.
Most people feel great after they donate. In fact, you’re probably feeling pretty good about yourself (as you should!), but if you feel unwell at any point, please call us on 13 14 95.
