Blood Donation Needle

[SuperBlondie28]

Hi,

I'm due to attend my first blood donation session next Sunday. I have no problem with jabs or blood tests where needles are concerned but having read up on blood donation, I've realised the donation needles are much bigger😨 I understand why.

My question is: do I get to pick which arm? If so, could I use EMLA numbing cream before hand? I'm familiar with EMLA as daughter always needs it for vaccines.

I do really want to do this. My cousin has just done his 50th blood donation 😊

Thanks all x

Yes, you can choose which arm. And yes, the needle is considerably larger bore than for example, a vaccination needle. They might have some numbing cream for you if you ask - I can't see a problem with using it. Good luck!!

The needles are no different from a blood test. You’ll just feel a slight scratch. You can definitely choose which arm.

Not sure but as someone who’s had a transfusion which absolutely turned me around in a terrible situation THANK YOU!

I’ve also just done my 50th donation 😀 yes the needle is bigger but honestly it really just does feel like a sharp scratch. If you want the area numbed I believe you can ask them to do it, I’m not sure they will allow to use your own though? Also when you have your pre-donation health check it would be worth mentioning you’re a bit worried about the needle insertion, as they may be able to get the most experienced nurse at the session to look after you. Good luck 🤞

I haven't been allowed to give blood in the last few years due to medication I was on. But when I did it regularly you could choose which arm but if they can't get the vein up they will go for where they can.

It hurts a lot less that a blood test despite being a bigger needle.

The staff at donation sessions are expert at what they do and very good at inserting the needle as painlessly as possible.

You can choose which arm. No point in using EMLA before hand though, because you won’t know where the blood donation nurse will find a good vein.

Thank you all for your encouraging words and well done to everyone who donates already. The questionnaire came today actually. Very in depth actually.

Stepping away from needles, I was curious about 1 question regarding being exposed to bodily fluids 🤔 I presume having sex with hubby of 20 yrs doesn't count? He's been snipped and I'm perimenopausal so we don't use condoms. Just wondering.. although form gives examples of biting, broken skin, needle pricks.

i used to work taking blood at a donation centre.

you can express a preference for which arm to use, however they will make the final decision based on the suitability of the vein.

we did not have any access to numbing cream and you would not be allowed to donate blood after using it, pain is an important sign that something is wrong and if you felt pain after the initial ‘scratch’ on insertion the donation would be stopped and the needle removed.

if it helps, you can ask for someone very experienced to insert the needle, so do let them know you are worried.

and drink lots of fluids!

Plenty of fluids is really important. I was turned away once when I'd booked an appointment early in the morning session and they couldn't get the blood flowing as fast as they need. I was advised it might be better to go for afternoon appointments and keep drinking all through the morning, and I haven't had a problem since.

Any arm is fine - you’ll be able to choose.

The numbing cream? I’ve not heard anyone ask for it at any session I’ve attended.

All I have ever felt is a wee scratch - and I’ve given so often now, I don’t even really feel that any more. The nurses are great. I also see a lot of reassurance towards new donors and they are very careful in trying to make it tue best experience they can do you. You’ll probably get a wee bit of fussing over!

Have a bit of breakfast and make sure you have plenty of fluids. You will be encouraged to have a drink when you arrive too. It helps.

Good luck! 🩸

My appointment is 2.10pm. So I'll be drinking plenty in the morning.

I've had no problems with veins or blood flow during blood tests so fingers crossed it goes smoothly and my iron levels are ok.

Thanks x

I’m terrified of needles but never had any issues giving blood. Thank you for donating, I’m on meds that mean I can’t donate now

It is bigger and I freaked out a bit when I first went-- but honestly it is no different from any other needle in terms of what it feels like. I was surprised.

The needle is a lot bigger but it's just like a dull ache. I'm sure you will be fine.

Just don't look at the needle until later and you'll be fine! There's usually something on a Tv in the corner to watch so you don't have to look.

Definitely eat and drink well beforehand- they usually make you drink a pint of a rehydration drink now before as they were trialling it at the centre I used and they told me it was nationwide now.

Think of the nice snacks after- our donor centre has seabrooks crisps, Tyrell's popcorn, raisins and club biscuits these days.

Some good advice from previous posters.
This is what I would do for an appt at 2:10.
a) Drink plenty of water from 11:30 onwards.
b) Arrive a few minutes early and go the loo so one doesn't feel uncomfortable during the session because they can be running late.
c) Drink about half a pint.
d) The donation process is quite straightforward.
e) Make sure you are registered at Blood.co.uk and that you include your phone number because you get a text when your blood donation is used - which is nice 😊
Best wishes

I love getting that text! It makes my day.

Just put it on both arms, there is enough to do 2 in one tube. Make sure you put it on like a puddle and cover with something water proof.

Please don’t listen to anyone telling you to use numbing cream. You will not be allowed to donate if you have used it and it’s a waste of everyone’s time.

They clean your arm for 30 seconds prior to inserting the needle so isn't that going to remove anything she's put on it?