How big is a needle for blood donation?

Question

i want to donate blood but not sure if i can handle it. im not needle phobic but needles do scare me sometimes + i heard they use really huge ones)

Answer 1

My understanding is that it is a 16 gauge needle.  It has to have a bigger lumen because the blood cells can be damaged if a smaller one is used.

Answer 2

I've given blood and platelets many times before and they always use an 18g needle on me.  On the ambulance we use a 16g needle -- if we can -- when we really want to get fluid into the patient fast and prevent hypovolemic shock.

It might depend on the size of the veins too, although a 22g would take a long time.

A BIC pen refill is probably more similar to the size of the tubing rather than the needle.

Phlebotomists, the technicians trained in blood collection, are well-trained.  When you go in to donate blood the first time, express your fears. Let them know that it's your first time, you're nervous, but you have a good heart and want to do something to save your fellow man rather than just talk about it.

Answer 3

its basicly an IV needle

Answer 4

Take apart a Bic pen. Look at the tube that holds the ink. That's about as large as the needle gets. Some are even smaller.

Pinch your skin with your fingertips, in the inside of your elbow and hold it for about 5 minutes. Eventually it will just feel like you're holding the skin. This is about as painful as it (should) get. I will admit, I have been stuck poorly. You'll know it when it happens. 99.9% of the time, it's as described above. Sometimes it's so smooth that you don't even know it's in there or it went in - seriously!

They'll cover the needle with a small square of gauze so you don't have to look at it. I also find that looking away (and not tensing up!) helps me. I'm not needle-phobic, but I prefer not to watch.

Don't twist your arm when you donate, and remember to breathe normally. If you have to, breathe in deep and slow, squeeze, then exhale. Repeat until the donation's done. Even talking to the nurses (phlebotomists) about anything will help with your breathing.

Drink plenty of fluids >before< and >after< donation. Eat something good  an hour or so before and after you donate too, don't skimp on a meal. Don't work out, do anything strenuous, lift anything heavier than say, 15lbs with that arm for a day after donating.

It is a very admirable thing that you are thinking of doing. If more people would do it, hospitals and emergency rooms could breathe easier.  Your blood will save a life!

Answer 5

i think it is the same as when they take a blood sample.

Answer 6

Please don't let your fears stop you.  The needle is fairly big, as blood has to pass through it.  However, not so big as to really hurt.  Uncomfortable, yes, but it is over in a couple of seconds.  Then, just lie back and squeeze the object they place in your hand, and it is over in a few minutes.

Enjoy the juice and cookies afterward.

Good luck.