SERVPRO hosts American Red Cross Blood Drives

9/19/2013 (Permalink)

Together with the Red Cross, we can save lives!

We here at SERVPRO of Chambersburg take great pride in our partnership with the American Red Cross.  One way we team up to support the Red Cross is by hosting blood drives.  For someone who has never donated before, the process can seem intimidating, but giving whole blood is simple.  The donation process, from the time you arrive unitl the time you leave, takes about an hour.  The donation itself is only about 10 minutes.  And the satisfaction you get from knowing you've helped change a life?  Timeless!

Here are some tips to ensure your donation goes as smooth as possible:

Before you give - Get a good night's sleep, have a good breakfast or lunch, drink extra water and fluids (but avoid tea, coffee, or caffeinated beverages), eat iron-rich foods like fortified cereals and broccoli, and avoid fatty foods like hamburgers, fries or ice cream.

While you give - Wear clothing with sleeves that can be raised above the elbow, show the staff "good veins" that have been used to draw blood in the past, and don't forget to relax.

After you give - Enjoy a snack and drink in our refreshment area. Drink plenty of fluids in the next 24 to 48 hours, avoid strenuous physical activity or heavy lifting for about 5 hours, and eat a well-balanced meal.

Remember: Donors seldom experience discomfort after giving, but if you feel light-headed, lie down until the feeling goes away. If bleeding occurs after you take off your bandage, apply pressure to the site and raise your arm until the bleeding stops. If bruising or bleeding appears under the skin, apply a cold pack. And if for any reason something doesn't feel right, call the post-donation number at 1-866-236-3276.