Health and Fitness : Virginia Gay Hospital and Vinton Community Blood Drive, July 30

To donate blood, simple go to the Clinic Conference Room at Virginia Gay Hospital on Tuesday, July 30th 11:45 am - 03:30 pm 502 N 9th Ave Vinton.

TIPS TO PREPARE FOR A POSITIVE DONATION:

We want you to feel great after you've donated.

Prior to your donation:

Drink plenty of fluids the night before and leading up to your donation - hydration is key to a positive experience.

Eat a good meal - do not donate on an empty stomach. Incorporate a bit more salt in your meals and snacks on the day of your donation.

Get plenty of rest prior to your donation.

Save time at your donation by filling out your LifeServe QuickPass online the day of your donation.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE DONATION:

Four basic steps make up blood donation:

1. Registration. Donors will provide their information, signed Parental/guardian permission form if necessary, and identification.

2. History Screening. Donors will complete a series of health and lifestyle questions and receive a mini-physical to check temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and hemoglobin level.

3. Donation. Collecting a unit of blood - about one pint - takes approximately 5-10 minutes. Donors may feel a slight pinch for a few seconds, but that is it!

4.Snacks. After the donation, donors will rest in the snack area and enjoy refreshments