I went to the blood drive early this morning. They took down all my information as I got more and more nervous. Then a phlebotomist pricked my finger to check my iron. She said this is usually the worst part of the whole process. It almost was; my finger is still sore. Then I moved to the donation area and another phlebotomist put the needle in. It was pretty painful, despite what everyone had been telling me beforehand. And it turns out I was in pain for a reason. The needle was in my vein but no blood was flowing into the bag. My arm started to feel a little numb. The phlebotomist called someone over to help, who said that he could either take the needle out entirely or they could try again on my other arm. I didn't want to be in pain again, but I didn't want to quit either. So I said they could try again. It wasn't nearly as painful the second time and I kept pretty calm.
The phlebotomist said that the failed first attempt was his fault, but I think it was because I was making too tight of a fist. They gave me a ball to squeeze in my hand, and when he said to squeeze it, I assumed that meant to do it hard. The second time I was told to squeeze lightly. So it still was his fault, but maybe my fear inhibited me from successfully doing something for once! I was taking his instructions, but at the same time I probably would have clenched my fists on my own. Once I was able to relax a bit more, I was able to accomplish what I set out to do.
The whole experience was quite positive. I feel very pleased about what I did for myself and someone else. I would absolutely recommend participating in future blood drives. I would like to do it again someday. My first arm is still really sore, but I'm sure that won't happen again next time. Otherwise, everything went really well!
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WAIT I LIED. Just took off my bandaid and nearly vommed...
WHAT IS THAT?!?!!
I just Skyped my mom immediately (tethered and proud) and she said there's not much I can do... I'm still totally baffled... How did that happen?! It wasn't even as painful as it looks! That was from one prick of the needle! I'll post updates as this heals...
Respect for your decision! I share your fear of needles. If I get a scratch, chances are I black out. That’s why I always refuse to have blood tests. I only had one blood test in the past 15 years. I would have avoided that one but I think I needed it for college. The nurse could not see my vein so she missed too. I almost passed out... and btw, my arm looked way worse because I did not keep the bandage too tight after the needle was out so the blood just spread as far as it could get. I wish I did not have this fear for blood and wounds because I would have loved to become a doctor…and maybe donate blood or bone marrow.
ReplyDeleteThat sucks! My fear sounds like nothing compared to yours. It's funny that you bring up bone marrow donation because I think there is going to be a donor registration this Friday above D-hall. I was thinking of registering despite how horribly this went...
ReplyDeleteI love your sense of putting yourself in uncomfortable situations because it certainly expands your horizons to quite a degree. I don't think I would be able to donate blood even though I usually look at the needle going through my skin when I get a shot. I'm sure you do the same thing. Its great that you are putting yourself through uncomfortable situations because your are doing it for a good cause in order to help others in need.
ReplyDeleteThanks Max! I always have to look, don't know why. And if you're ever contemplating donating blood, do it. It was incredibly rewarding.
ReplyDeleteI love your throw-away line, tethered and proud!
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