Facts About Donating Blood

from Better Health magazine, Spring, 2004

Jack C. Turner, MD, is Director of Laboratories at Danville Regional Medical Center and Medical Director of the Danville Regional Blood Donor Center.

Is it safe to donate blood at the Blood Donor Center?

Definitely. We're accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks and the College of American pathologists, and supervised by the FDA. We employ only credentialed phlebotomists, and most have extensive experience. We check our equipment for sterility and temperature compliance every day. You can give blood here with complete confidence.

What if I'm afraid of needles?

That's a natural reaction. But our people are well trained and very experienced. And they're gentle. We have a friendly, almost family atmosphere here. We get to know our donors, and chances are you'll be telling us about something your kids did and not even realize the process has begun. If you're concerned, come in for a visit and let us explain what goes on and show you what a difference you can make.

How long does the process take?

We tell people to allow an hour, though it may only take 45 minutes or so. We go through our questionnaire each time, so do a health check, and afterward we make sure donors have something to eat and drink and that they're ready to leave. The blood donation itself is over in about ten minutes.

What are the benefits of giving blood?

First, you get a brief health screening that may point to anemia or other physical issues you can address. But best of all, you'll know that you've probably saved a life. I like to say that life is a team sport, and we're all going to need help at one time or another. It's a tremendously rewarding feeling knowing that you've been able to make a lasting difference in someone else's life.