We are the busiest platelet collection center in the military (mostly because we are open 7 days a week). They like folks with large veins (which I have on both arms). It's easy, lay there and squeeze a ball when the blood pressure cuff is inflated. Problem happens when too much calcium & other electrolytes are pulled out of your system. I started getting numb. My jaw hurt also. Chewed 5 tums and drank most of a gatorade to help. But my hand still got very sore by the end of the 6 cycles. Fortunately the recover was pretty quick. I'm on the books to donate again in 3 weeks. I'll premedicate with the calcium supplement early in the day.
(previously "Holly in Balad" and "Holly in Washington DC")
21 March 2009
Donating Platelets
We are the busiest platelet collection center in the military (mostly because we are open 7 days a week). They like folks with large veins (which I have on both arms). It's easy, lay there and squeeze a ball when the blood pressure cuff is inflated. Problem happens when too much calcium & other electrolytes are pulled out of your system. I started getting numb. My jaw hurt also. Chewed 5 tums and drank most of a gatorade to help. But my hand still got very sore by the end of the 6 cycles. Fortunately the recover was pretty quick. I'm on the books to donate again in 3 weeks. I'll premedicate with the calcium supplement early in the day.
Labels:
AFTH,
Balad AB,
Deployment,
Platelets
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