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A Whole Blood Donation

A whole blood donation equals one pint of blood and is collected from one donor. When the donation is complete it is brought to our laboratory where three different blood components are produced.

Whole blood's main components are red blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Whole blood is spun at a very high speed, separating each component, which is then stored in its own bag for transfusion to the patient.

The shelf life of whole blood products is:

Red Cells - 42 days.
Plasma - can be frozen for one-year.
Platelets - five days.

To Donate Whole Blood:

You must be at least 17 years of age.
You should weigh 110 pounds or more.
You must be in overall good health.
You can donate every eight weeks.

To assure that you have positive and successful donation experience:

Drink plenty of healthy fluids (such as water) before and after donating.
Eat a small meal or snack.
Do not drink an excessive amount of caffeinated beverages before donation.
Continue to take prescribed medications.