Giving Blood

Giving blood is simple.

• All blood donors are required to complete a simple questionnaire to help ensure donations will be safe for both themselves and the potential recipients of their blood.
• Before the actual blood donation begins, Marsh Regional Blood Center staff test blood pressure, pulse, temperature and red cells (hematocrit).

Giving blood is quick.

• The blood donation process takes less than one hour from start to finish.
• The actual time of blood donation typically takes between eight minutes and ten minutes.

Giving blood is safe.

• Every Marsh Regional phlebotomist is an experienced and highly-trained professional.
• All blood bags and needles are completely sterile and used only once, making it impossible to contract any disease from donating.
• In order to safely give blood, each donor MUST meet the following basic donor eligibility requirements.
  • Blood donors should drink plenty of fluids and must eat a well-balanced meal within four to six hours of donation.
  • Blood donors must weigh at least 110 pounds.
  • Blood donors must be at least 18 years of age (or 17 years of age with written parental permission).
  • Blood donors must be generally healthy, with no cold, sore throat, fever, flu or fever blisters within three days of donating. Potential donors who don't feel well shouldn't give!
   
• Potential donors SHOULD NOT give blood:
  • If they are currently taking an antibiotic for an infection or have taken an antibiotic within the past seven days
  • If they have not eaten a well-balanced and substantial meal within four to six hours of the donation
  • If they have a history of hepatitis, heart disease or most cancers within the last five years
  • If they have had a tattoo, blood transfusion or accidental needlestick within the past 12 months
  • If they have had a major surgery in the past six months or pregnancy within the past six weeks
  • If they have ever had a positive HIV test or had sex in the past 12 months with anyone who has had one
  • If they have ever used illegal IV drugs or had sex in the past 12 months with anyone who has done so
  • If they have received or given money or drugs for sex since 1977
  • If they are MALE and have had sex with another male since 1977
  • If they are FEMALE and have had sex in the past 12 months with a male who has had sex with another male since 1977
   

If you are interested in becoming a blood donor at Marsh Regional or have questions about these requirements or any aspect of blood donation, please contact (423) 224-5888.