Donating blood after a fracture or broken bone

Usually yes, with a small check first. Once the bone has healed, you are mobile and off strong painkillers, donation is routine again. ## The short answer Immobilisation and painkiller use are the temporary issues, not the bone itself. Plaster still on or surgery recent, wait; healed and walking, donate. ## At the screening desk Tell the staff: Fracture date and any hardware (plates, rods). That conversation is confidential and takes a minute, it exists so the medical officer can clear you safely on the day. Everyone meets the same basics: age 18,65, weight 50 kg+, haemoglobin on target, feeling well today. Men donate every 3 months, women every 4, the rest rules, simply. Not sure about your case? Try the Can I donate? checker or read who can donate and the deferral list in plain words. Still weighing it? Is blood donation safe? and the honest side-effects list are straight answers, not brochure talk. ## The one line that matters The medical officer at the centre makes the final call on the day, with your name, your file and your actual reading in front of them. Use this page to walk in informed, not to overrule anyone.