Type AB- is the universal plasma donor and can give plasma to any other blood type.Type AB+ is the universal recipient and can receive red blood cells from any other blood type.Type O- is the universal donor and can give red blood cells to any other blood type.To make sure that we are providing the patient with the safest possible blood, the FDA requires that we ask about your medical history every time you donate.Why do I have to answer the same medical history questions every time I donate? You may contact us for a list of testing facilities. Please note we are not a testing facility. IIf your blood tests show that your blood may make someone sick, it will not be used and you are notified. These tests include your blood type and testing for viruses such as Hepatitis and HIV. Every time you donate, blood samples are taken for testing.Most donors can resume normal activity after that time. Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for about 24 hours after donation.You will enjoy refreshments after you donate and we will instruct you to drink plenty of fluids for the next 24 hours. There is a little sting when the needle is inserted, but you should be comfortable during the donation.Stay 15 minutes after your donation and enjoy refreshments. This step may be longer for different donation types. Donate a unit of blood through a needle in your arm which takes about 10 minutes.

Also have a blood pressure, temperature and pulse check. Answer confidential medical history questions and have a finger stick to get a hemoglobin check from a drop of blood. Give us your name, date of birth, address and other demographic information. It takes about an hour to go through the steps to donate Whole Blood and a little longer for other donation types:.A list of places you have visited outside of the U.S.In addition, it is helpful if you bring the following: You must show a photo ID, such as a Driver's License.What should I bring with me when I come to donate? It is also important to have a good night's sleep before donating. It is very important to drink plenty of fluids and eat a good meal within 4 hours before donating. You cannot get HIV or other infectious diseases from donating blood. Yes! The needle and bags used to collect the blood are used only once, and then discarded.Platelets donors may donate every 3 days.Whole Blood donors may donate every 8 weeks or 56 days.All donors must show a photo ID at the time of donation with name and date of birth.Donors must be in good health and feel well on the day of donation.Donors must be at least 17 years old and weigh at least 110 pounds.

Weight to donate blood