South Florida Divers, Inc. 
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CONTENTS:
Donating Blood: What’s the “surface interval?”

Donating Blood: What’s the “surface interval?”

~ Special thanks to Sandra Soler
     After the terrible tragedy of September 11, thousands of Americans endured long lines in order to give blood.   At the Seafood Fest, some of us wondered aloud how long you must wait after donating until you can dive safely.  The very next day, which was a Sunday, Sandra Soler took the initiative to contact DAN via e-mail...and was astounded to receive an answer early Monday morning!  Sandra’s reaction? “You know, it really amazed me how fast DAN replied on a not really urgent message. Great service!”

     So, what IS the recommended surface interval after phlebotomy?  According to DAN, “Although blood volume will return to normal shortly following blood donation, a lower red blood cell count may contribute to undesirable signs and symptoms such as fatigue and dehydration. Such conditions are well known to increase one’s risk for a dive accident or possible decompression sickness. Medical standards for divers, as defined in a clinical study by the Undersea Hyperbaric and Medical Society, states divers should not dive for at least 48 to 72 hours after blood donation. DAN routinely recommends 72 hours. We hope that you are supporting DAN with your membership and insurance.

Safe diving.
Sincerely,
Divers Alert Network”