As a volunteer blood donor, you are a special person.

American Red Cross Blood Services considers you our partner in providing a safe and adequate blood supply for the patients who need it. As our partner, we are also concerned about your good health. This page outlines the donation process.

Who is eligible to donate blood?

The basic requirements are that donors must be in good health, 17 years of age or older, weigh at least 110 pounds and not at risk for HIV/AIDS or hepatitis.

What should you do before donating?

We want your donation experience to be rewarding. Please remember the following:

• Note the name and dosage of any medications you are taking. Medications may not keep you from donating, but the reason for taking them might.

How does the blood donation process work?

Donating is safe and simple. The entire process takes about 45 to 60 minutes. Medical equipment is sterile, used only once, and then disposed. The actual donation process works like this:

1. You will complete a donor registration form which includes your name, address, phone number, social security number, etc.
2. You will be asked to show your donor card or other identification.
3. You will be asked a few questions about your health. All information is confidential.
4. You will receive a mini-health exam, including checks for blood pressure, temperature and pulse. In addition, a drop of blood will be obtained from your ear lobe or finger to test for anemia.
5. You will proceed to a donor bed where your arm will be cleaned with an antiseptic. If you are allergic to iodine, be sure to tell the phlebotomist.
6. During the donation process, you will donate one unit of blood; this takes about six to ten minutes.
7. Following your donation, you will receive refreshments in the canteen area.

Donating blood is a simple process. Your gift of life may help three people or more.

Red blood cells do not last forever. Blood has a shelf life of up to 42 days. A healthy donor may donate every 56 days. Please help maintain an adequate blood supply by donating regularly.

What should I do after donating blood?

It is recommended you:

• Increase your fluid intake for the next 24 to 48 hours
• Avoid strenuous physical exertion, heavy lifting or pulling with the donation arm for about five hours.
• Eat well balanced meals for the next 24 hours

People seldom experience discomfort after donating. However, if you feel light-headed, lie down until the feeling passes. If some bleeding occurs after removal of the bandage, apply pressure to the site and raise your arm for three to five minutes. If bruising or bleeding appears under the skin, apply a cold pack periodically to the bruised area during the first 24 hours, then warm, moist heat intermittently.

If you have any questions concerning your donation or experience any unexpected problems, please call the American Red Cross at 1-800-843-2949, extension 5521.

What tests are administered to ensure my blood is safe to distribute to patients?

Each unit of blood is tested for the following:
• ABO group and type and Rh factor.
• Unexpected antibodies that are a result of prior transfusion, pregnancy or other factors.
• Hepatitis B surface antigen, indicating a current infection (hepatitis) or carrier state for hepatitis B virus.
• Antibody to hepatitis B core, indicator of a present or past infection with the hepatitis B virus.
• Antibody to hepatitis C virus, indicating a current or past hepatitis C virus, (non-A/non-B hepatitis).
• Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) - a liver enzyme that, when increased, may indicate other forms of liver disease.
• Antibody to HTLV-I/II, indicator of infection with a virus that may cause adult T-cell leukemia or neurologic disease.
• Antibody to HIV 1/2, indicator of infection with a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
• HIV-1 Antigen - a second test to detect HIV-1 infection. This test adds a second layer of safety to the blood supply by narrowing the “window period” between time of infection and detectability.
• Screening test for syphilis.

You will be notified about results of the required tests listed above only if a problem is detected. Donor notification suggests you be counseled and provided options regarding possible treatments.

An additional test performed on some units needed for newborns and special patients, but is not required for most transfusions, is:

• Antibody to Cytomegalovirus (CMV), which indicates the presence of the antibody to a very common virus.

What happens to your blood after it is donated?

Your blood donation can be separated into three individual components:

Red blood cells carry oxygen to all parts of the body and are administered to replenish blood loss and maintain adequate levels of oxygen. Red blood cells can be stored up to 42 days and are usually used by trauma or surgical patients.

Plasma, the liquid part of blood, is usually stored frozen for up to one year. Plasma is administered to patients with clotting problems.

Platelets clot the blood when cuts or other open wounds occur. Donated platelets must be used within days. Cancer and transplant patients often need repeated platelet transfusions.

After processing, the separated components are held for about 48 hours until testing confirms they are safe for distribution. Once released, blood units are usually delivered to hospitals and patients within a few days. Since your blood is separated into the several components, your single donation can potentially save three or more lives.