Today IS class was only 2 hours, out of the 4 hours on timetable. Last week, I had prebooked a slot at 12.30 to donate my blood at the convention centre. The event was organised by Ngee Ann's Red Cross Chapter.
It was my first time donating blood, so I did not really know what to expect.
After class, I waited for Chin Chuan, then we went to the convention centre. Firstly, we were required to fill in a detailed questionnaire, questions ranging from the donor's travel, medical history.
After filling in the questionnaire, I gave my form to someone there to enter my details and then I waited before being assessed by a medical officer . After that, another wait before having a blood test. I dont know exactly what they are testing for, but it involved one of your fingers being pricked. It didnt hurt as much as I thought. Next, another long wait before the actual blood donation takes place.
Firstly, I waited again before I was attended to on the bench. Fortunately, they provided blankets because the room was rather cold. My right inner elbow got disinfected before being injected with something, I think its some sort of painkiller, while squeezing a stress ball. Then finally, they inserted a cannula into the vein and drew out my blood. It depends on the individual how long the drawing of blood takes, and I think I finished in about 5 minutes. After removing the cannula, the process is almost over. I rested awhile on the bench before my wound was treated.
After that, I took a drink and it was over.