Donation Process

Getting ready to give blood

Take the give blood eligibility quiz, call us on 1850 731 137 or contact us here to find out if you are eligible to give blood.
Find out where and when you can give blood
We recommend that you have eaten something and have had plenty of cold drinks
Allow yourself about an hour to an hour and a half to complete the process at the clinic from registration to refreshments
Come back and give blood again in 90 days. Next time, why not bring a friend!

Registration at the Clinic

When you volunteer to give blood you will be asked to register with the Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS). We ask for your name, address, date of birth and telephone numbers.

You will be asked about specific aspects of your life and medical history and also asked to fill in a health and lifestyle questionnaire. We ask that you read the questionnaire and leaflets provided thoroughly. All the information you give will be treated in the strictest confidence.

Haemoglobin testing

We test a small drop of blood from your finger to make sure that you are not anaemic (short of iron). If your blood passes this test, we may be able to accept your donation straight away.

Giving Blood

Giving blood then takes approximately 8 to15 minutes. The total volume of blood taken is 470ml, which is less than a pint.

Resting

You will then be advised to rest for a short period before going to the canteen where you will be offered a drink and light refreshments.

Congratulations

You’ve saved a life. Thank you and we hope to see you again soon (90 days!!).