Blood Donation Facts
Donating is simple! Following registration, you will answer simple medical history questions. Then you will roll up your sleeve, feel only a brief pinch, and relax for 7-10 minutes while the blood is collected. The donation will be over before you know it!
Once completed, you will enjoy a delicious assortment of snacks and juices to replace fluids and relax for 15 minutes. There are a couple of important factors to run through before you can donate blood.
Everyday there is a medical emergency in someone’s life in which blood is crucially needed. Because blood does not have an indefinite shelf life, supplies must be replenished regularly. This is why people need to donate every 56 days.
Even though 60 percent of the population is eligible to donate blood, less than 3 percent currently donate each year. It is not enough! One out of ten people who enter the hospital will need a blood transfusion. This could be someone in your family a friend, neighbor or someone you don’t even know who could be helped by your generosity. Everyday, people who have cancer, emergency heart surgery, or even a serious car accident, uses blood or blood products.
Did you know?
- You can still donate while taking most prescriptions.
- There is no upper age limit to be eligible for donation.
- You can donate if you are a diabetic whose blood sugar level is controlled.
- You can donate while dieting if your caloric intake is at least 1200 calories.
- You can donate with many heart conditions.
- You can donate if your blood pressure is regulated with medication.
- You can donate with simple skin cancers and 5 years after most types of cancer.
- You can donate 2 years after Valley Fever.
- You can donate after receiving most vaccinations.
When preparing for donation, please note:
Must be 17 years of age, or 16 years old with parent permission slip – available here. Bring a picture ID with a date of birth. Must weigh 110 pounds. Repeat donors please bring some type of ID.
Eat a meal within a few hours prior donating (no more than 5 hours). Meals containing, protein and carbohydrates are ideal. (Recommendations: eggs, cheese, meat, beans and rice, or peanut butter) Dieters MUST be taking in at least 1200 calories per day.
The more fluids you take in before and after donating, the better you feel. AVOID CAFFEINE! IT IS DEHYDRATING!
You should be FREE from all cold, flu or symptoms of infection, and be off of antibiotics for 3 days.
Most medications are acceptable. If taking medication, know the name.
Must wait 12 months after a tattoo or body piercing.
