(b) Instruct the donor to breathe slowly and deeply if he is only
nauseated.
(c)
Apply cold compresses to the donor's forehead.
(d) Provide a suitable receptacle if the donor vomits, and have
cleansing tissues or a damp towel ready.
Do not leave donor in a head-down position because of the dangers of
CAUTION:
aspiration.
(e) Give the donor a paper cup of water to rinse out his mouth.
(4) Twitching or muscular spasms. Extremely nervous donors may
hyperventilate, causing faint muscular twitching or tetanic spasm of their hands or face.
Donor room personnel should watch closely for these symptoms during the phlebotomy.
Diverting the donor's attention by engaging him in conversation can interrupt the
hyperventilation pattern. However, if symptoms are apparent, having the donor re-
breathe into a paper bag will usually bring prompt relief.
DO NOT ADMINISTER OXYGEN FOR TWITCHING/MUSCULAR
CAUTION:
SPASMS.
(5)
Hematoma.
(a) Remove the tourniquet and the needle from the donor's arm.
(b) Place 3 or 4 sterile gauze squares over the hematoma and apply
firm digital pressure for 7 to 10 minutes with the donor's arm held above the heart level.
(6)
Convulsions.
(a) CALL SOMEONE TO HELP YOU IMMEDIATELY. Prevent the
donor from injuring himself. During severe seizures, some people exhibit great
muscular power and are difficult to restrain.
1 If possible, place tongue blades wrapped with adhesive tape
between the back teeth of the donor to prevent him from chewing his tongue. Keep the
blades in place until the donor recovers.
2 If possible, hold the donor on the chair or bed; if not possible,
place the donor on the floor. Do not restrain the movements of the donor's extremities
completely, but try to prevent him from injuring himself or you.
(b) Be sure the donor has an adequate airway.
MD0845
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