I had a vasovagal reaction

I recall you mentioned this before, but I can't find where. It was great to see that there is a fancy name for what seems to be my experience, what I was calling a phobia. It is strange because I don't feel fear; the donation process is barely uncomfortable and I believe it is very safe. I have been in hospital rooms with people who have IVs and had no reaction. But once the weirdness starts, it seems inevitable that I will have an episode.

body modifications like tattoos and piercings

Yes, these were both on the questionnaire. I am pretty nearly an ideal donor: O positive, monogamous heterosexual, no recreational needle use, no prescription drugs, no history of disqualifying illness. I have the most boring blood possible. My only red flag is for travel, and I feel obligated to spell out all the places I have visited even though it means a lot of follow-up questions. It was 45 minutes after my appointment before I finally got jabbed, and the whole process was about 90 minutes.

drinking more water and consuming more salt

I skipped breakfast last time, so this time I was careful to eat well before my appointment. Didn't seem to help, but couldn't have hurt. If/when I go again, I'll try something salty with water just before.