How blood donation works – from check-in to rest
What happens at a South African blood-donation visit, from the questionnaire and checks to donation and recovery.
The process is a short series of safety checks
A SANBS donation visit includes registration, a health questionnaire, private eligibility questions, basic checks and the donation itself. Staff are there to protect both the donor and the person who may receive the blood. You can ask questions or stop the process if you feel unwell.
What usually happens
- Register and complete the donor questionnaire.
- Speak privately with staff about health, travel, medicines and exposure risk.
- Have the required pulse, blood pressure and haemoglobin checks.
- Donate in the position and time advised by the staff.
- Rest, drink and have the provided recovery period before leaving.
The exact process can differ between a fixed site and a mobile drive, but the safety questions remain important.
Make the visit comfortable
- Eat before the visit as advised by SANBS.
- Wear clothing that allows access to the arm.
- Tell staff immediately about dizziness, nausea, pain or feeling faint.
- Avoid strenuous activity until you have followed the centre's recovery advice.
Follow up if you feel unwell after donating
Common questions
- How long does blood donation take?
- The visit includes registration and checks as well as the donation, so allow time for the complete SANBS process rather than only the collection itself.
- What happens after donating blood?
- You rest, drink and follow the donor-centre recovery advice. Tell staff if you feel faint or unwell before leaving.
Sources
- The blood donation processSouth African National Blood Service
- Who can donate blood and donor requirementsSouth African National Blood Service
Last reviewed 26 August 2026.