Paging Dr. ML (a little graphic)

[verycontrary247]

I donated platelets today. Few minor complications where the tech had to reposition the needle, but did a successful full draw. Saw there was some immediate bruising before they took the needle out, got ice on it for about 45 minutes after they wrapped it up. Just took the bandage off and holy shit this looks bad. Do I ice it again? Heat? I'm scared to google and I've never had this happen on a successful draw.

[MixedBerryJam]

Thank you for giving platelets! I cant anymore because I've collapsed twice after giving them. i 'm fine ... Until I'm out cold! That's worse than the bruising I've ever had, but usually after the first ice minimizes it, nothing much else helps. I hope it doesnt hurt. It doesnt look like even keeping the wrap on it extra would have helped you this time!

[mountaingirl]

Ice!! I'm sure it is just a bad bruise from poking around in there. Is there a number on the paperwork you can vall to let them know about it? If it was done at a center I would go back and show them.

Good for you for donating! I do double red blood cells a few times a year.

[wise_rita]

Don't panic, that's not too bad. I've had and seen much worse from plasma and it was just a funny/crappy needle stick, which I think resulted in leakage out of the vein. I've never had a bad bruise from platelets.

Don't give up on donating platelets! I'm sure it was just the phlebotomist, and I assure you the bruise isn't HORRIBLE.

[tigermom]

As long as the site is soft then I wouldn't worry. If the site becomes hard or you notice warmth/swelling/tenderness to the area then it would be a good idea to call and let them know. I know the bruise looks bad to you, but it's not the worst I've seen as a nurse. They can take a long time to fade though. Please don't let this keep you from donating in the future, just mention that you bruised badly before and hopefully they will hold pressure a little longer next time.

[katfco]

I get bruising like that when I try to give blood (which is why they've told me not to bother anymore), but even though it looks bad, it'll be fine. It may take a while to go away, but it's not dangerous.

[NothingWrongwithOhio]

Just looks like some leakage. I donated blood and did some heavy lifting (stage crew stuff) an hour after and I ended up with a bruise like that down my entire forearm. Got it checked out, by that time everything was fine and I just had a really nasty looking but not at all painful bruise for a few weeks.