Giving Blood

Giving blood is simple
  • You will be asked to complete a simple questionnaire to help ensure that your donation will be safe for both you and the recipient of your blood.
  • Before you donate, Marsh staff test your blood pressure, pulse, temperature and red cell level.
Giving blood is quick
  • The process takes less than one hour from start to finish.
  • The actual time of blood donation is only 8 to 10 minutes.
Giving blood is safe
  • Every Marsh Regional Blood Center phlebotomist is a 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, you MUST meet the following basic donor eligibility requirements:
    • Eat a well balanced meal within four to six hours of your donation
    • Weigh at least 110 pounds
    • Be at least 18 years of age (or 17 years of age with written parental permission)
    • Be healthy; No cold, sore throat, fever, flu or fever blisters within 2-3 days of your donation. If you don't feel well, you shouldn't give!
  • You SHOULD NOT donate blood if any of these statements apply to you:
    • If you are currently taking an antibiotic for an infection or have taken an antibiotic within the past 7 days
    • If you have not eaten a well-balanced and substantial meal within four to six hours of your donation
    • If you have a history of hepatitis, heart disease, or most cancers within the last five years
    • If you have had a tattoo, blood transfusion, or accidental needlestick within the past 12 months
    • If you have had a major surgery in the past six months or pregnancy within the past six weeks
    • If you have ever had a positive HIV test or had sex in the past 12 months with anyone who has had one
    • If you have ever used illegal IV drugs or had sex in the past 12 months with anyone who has done so
    • If you have received or given money or drugs for sex since 1977
    • If you are MALE and have had sex with another male since 1977
    • If you 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 MRBC and have questions about these requirements or anything else, please contact Marsh Regional Blood Center at 423-224-5888.
  • Nurse Connection