Who can be a blood donor?

Almost half of American are eligible to donate blood. However, only about three percent of the population actually does. The basic requirements are that you must:

• Individuals who are at least 17 years old (16 with parental permission in some states)

• Meet height and weight requirements (at least 110 pounds based on height)

• Be in general good health

• A Red Cross donor card or positive ID is required.

  Call 1-800-GIVE LIFE (1-800-448 3543) for more information.

What should I do before giving blood?

First make an appointment through your local Red Cross of a bloodmobile recruiter at your work place, school, or organization. Get a good night's sleep and eat a good breakfast the morning of your donation. Wear comfortable clothes (sleeves that can be pushed or rolled up above the elbow)

What should I bring with me?

• A government-issued photo ID, or Red Cross blood donor card if you have donated before
• The name of any prescription medicine you have taken in the last month

  Taking medicine will not necessarily exclude you from donating blood. If you have any questions about your eligibility because you are taking medication, please call the Red Cross at 1-800-GIVE LIFE before you donate.

What will happen when I donate blood?

There are three stages in the donation process.

PREPARATION

• Register
• Review information
• Take a mini physical

Preparing to give the gift of life is the first step in your donation process. You do this by checking in at registration, reviewing the reading materials, and responding to health history questions. Then you have a health history review and mini physical that includes a finger prick sample to verify your hematocrit (iron) level is high enough.

DONATION

• Sit back
• Relax
• Give the gift of life

Just sit back, relax, and enjoy a few minutes of peace and quiet in your busy day while giving the gift of life.  The actual donation only takes about 10 minutes.

REJUVENATION

• Refresh with liquids
• Revitalize with snacks
• Rejuvenate your body

You might be tempted to rush off as soon as you are finished donating, but this final step in the donation process is very important. Giving blood takes fluids out of your body, and you need to put some back in. The donor diner is more than just a sweet reward for your generous donation; it is a key step to refresh, revitalize, and rejuvenate your body. Sit and enjoy yummy treats that will give your body the energy it will need before heading off to tackle the rest of your day.

What about safety?

A sterile collection kit is used for each donation, protecting the safety of both donor and recipient.

Still have questions? Call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) to speak with an expert on donor eligibility or anything else related to the blood donation process.