Zoe Finn, a tattoo enthusiast, has been getting new tattoos annually for the past decade. Each new tattoo holds a special place in her heart, with her most recent goal being a complete sleeve on her arm. However, she recently extended her arm for a different purpose – donating blood for the first time.
Can I donate blood after getting a tattoo?
Donating blood took Zoe about 45 minutes, less time than it took to get most of her tattoos. She was surprised to find out that she could have donated blood sooner, but she had been previously told to wait a year after getting a tattoo. However, the rules have changed. In most cases, individuals can donate blood immediately after getting a tattoo, as long as the tattoo was applied at a state-regulated entity that uses sterile needles and ink that is not reused.
Why should you consider donating blood?
The demand for blood products in the United States is high, with the American Red Cross reporting a daily need for 36,000 units of red blood cells, 7,000 units of platelets, and 10,000 units of plasma. This average demand is even higher, depleting the nation’s inventory of blood products and requiring blood donor organizations to seek new donors.
In northern Colorado alone, someone requires a blood transfusion every 37 minutes. Blood products are crucial not only for trauma patients but also for women with pregnancy complications, children with severe anemia, and cancer patients. The need for blood transfusions is expected to increase during the summer and holiday months, with more people traveling and hospitals caring for patients who deferred care during the pandemic.
Donating blood is easy and saves lives
Donating blood is a relatively simple process that takes about 45 minutes. The actual donation of one pint of blood only takes about eight to ten minutes. People can donate every 56 days, and their body replenishes the lost fluid within 24 hours. It’s essential to eat a good meal and stay hydrated before and after donation.
Donations can be scheduled at Garth Englund’s blood donor centers in northern Colorado. Interested donors can call 970.495.8965 or fill out a form to schedule an appointment. Donating blood is not limited to northern Colorado; there are blood donation centers and blood drives happening in various locations. Contact your local blood donation center to find out how you can make a difference.
To donate blood, you must be at least 18 years old (or 17 with a parent’s permission) and show photo identification. New donors must weigh at least 120 pounds and be in good health. Prior donors must weigh at least 110 pounds. Donors can donate 14 days after receiving a COVID-19 vaccination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I donate blood immediately after getting a tattoo?
A: In most cases, yes. As long as the tattoo was applied at a state-regulated entity that uses sterile needles and non-reused ink, individuals can donate blood immediately after getting a tattoo.
Q: How often can I donate blood?
A: You can donate blood every 56 days.
Q: What are the requirements for donating blood?
A: To donate blood, you must be at least 18 years old (or 17 with a parent’s permission), show photo identification, weigh at least 120 pounds (for new donors), and be in good health.
Conclusion
Donating blood is a simple yet impactful way to save lives. By understanding the updated guidelines for donating blood after getting a tattoo, individuals like Zoe Finn can contribute to meeting the increasing demand for blood products. So, if you’re a tattoo enthusiast or someone interested in making a difference, consider donating blood today!
