Donating blood is a simple thing to do, but can make a big difference in the lives of others. The donation process from the time you arrive until the time you leave takes about an hour. The donation itself is only about 8-10 minutes on average. The steps in the process are: Registration
Health History and Mini Physical
Donation
Refreshments
Your gift of blood may help up to three people. Donated red blood cells do not last forever. They have a shelf-life of up to 42 days. A healthy donor may donate every 56 days. ","category": {"name": "Blood Donation Process","slug": "donating-blood-blood-donation-process"}},{"title": "What should I do after donating blood?","description": "After you give blood: Take the following precautions:
Only for a moment. Pinch the fleshy, soft underside of your arm. That pinch is similar to what you will feel when the needle is inserted. The entire process takes about one hour and 15 minutes; the actual donation of a pint of whole blood unit takes eight to 10 minutes. However, the time varies slightly with each person depending on several factors including the donor’s health history and attendance at the blood drive. The plasma from your donation is replaced within about 24 hours. Red cells need about four to six weeks for complete replacement. That’s why at least eight weeks are required between whole blood donations. The highest priorities of the Red Cross are the safety of the blood supply and our blood donors. Some individuals may be at risk of transferring communicable disease through blood donation due to exposure via travel or other activities or may encounter problems with blood donation due to their health. We ask these questions to ensure that it is safe for patients to receive your blood and to ensure that it is safe for you to donate blood that day. You must wait at least eight weeks (56 days) between donations of whole blood and 16 weeks (112 days) between Power Red donations. Whole blood donors can donate up to 6 times a year. Platelet apheresis donors may give every 7 days up to 24 times per year. Regulations are different for those giving blood for themselves (autologous donors). In most states, donors must be age 17 or older. Some states allow donation by 16-year-olds with a signed parental consent form. Donors must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Additional eligibility criteria apply. At this time, we are allowing additional guests or children to accompany donors to their donation appointment. Guests are expected to follow any safety protocols in place at the time of donation. The safety of our donors, volunteers, and employees is of the utmost importance. Children who do not require supervision and are not disruptive are welcome to sit in the waiting or refreshment area. If they require supervision another adult must be present. ","category": {"name": "Blood Donation Process","slug": "donating-blood-blood-donation-process"}},{"title": "What is apheresis?","description": "Apheresis is the process by which platelets and other specific blood components (red cells or plasma) are collected from a donor. The word “apheresis” is derived from the Greek word aphaeresis meaning “to take away.” This process is accomplished by using a machine called a cell separator. Blood is drawn from the donor and the platelets, or another blood component, are collected by the cell separator and the remaining components of the blood are returned to the donor during the donation. Each apheresis donation procedure takes about one-and-one-half to two hours. Donors can watch movies or relax during the donation. Platelets are tiny, colorless, disc-shaped particles circulating in the blood, and they are essential for normal blood clotting. Platelets are critically important to the survival of many patients with clotting problems (aplastic anemia, leukemia) or cancer, and patients who will undergo organ transplants or major surgeries like heart bypass grafts. Platelets can only be stored for five days after being collected. Maintaining an adequate supply of this lifesaving, perishable product is an ongoing challenge. Every 7 days up to 24 apheresis donations can be made in a year. Some apheresis donations can generate two or three adult-sized platelet transfusion doses from one donation! Healthy individuals are needed to help patients counting on lifesaving blood. The need for blood is constant, and volunteer donors are the only source of blood for those in need of transfusions. Blood donation is an "essential service" and "critical infrastructure" function as determined by the United States Department of Homeland Security and many other federal, state and local authorities. Like a hospital, grocery store, or pharmacy, a blood drive is essential to ensuring the health of the community, and the Red Cross will continue to hold blood drives during this challenging time to help meet patient needs. The Department of Health and Human Services, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Food and Drug Administration have issued statements encouraging blood donation for those who are well. It’s important to note that blood drives have the high standards of safety and infection control. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What safety precautions are in place at Red Cross blood drives to protect staff and donors? ","description": "Safety is our top priority. The Red Cross only collects blood from individuals who are healthy and feeling well at the time of donation. To help keep everyone attending Red Cross blood drives and visiting blood donation centers safe as COVID-19 cases are surging again, the Red Cross requires all blood donors, staff and others to wear a face mask regardless of their vaccination status. At each blood drive and donation center, Red Cross employees have always followed thorough safety protocols to help prevent the spread of any type of infection, including: • Wearing gloves and changing gloves often • Routinely disinfecting donor-touched areas • Using sterile collection sets for every donation, and • Preparing the arm for donation with an aseptic scrub. Additionally, we will continue to utilize additional precautions put into place earlier during the pandemic– to ensure the safety of our employees, volunteers and donors, including: • Hand sanitizer available before entering the drive, as well as throughout the donation process. • All surfaces and equipment receive enhanced disinfection. • Donation appointment emphasis to help manage the flow of donors at drives. These mitigation measures will help ensure staff and donor safety in reducing contact with those who may potentially have COVID-19, or any, respiratory infection. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can donors wear homemade masks, such as cloth masks, bandanas, etc.?","description": "Yes, as long as the cloth or homemade mask covers both their nose and mouth in alignment with updated CDC guidelines. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What if a donor doesn’t want to wear a mask? For example, what if they have a medical condition that makes it difficult or impossible to wear a mask?","description": "To ensure the safety of our staff and the blood donor community, if a donor does not want to wear a face mask, we ask they postpone their donation for a later date when masks may no longer be required. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "I tried to make an appointment to donate blood, but there are no blood drives near me?","description": "Like many organizations, the Red Cross continues to face pandemic challenges that have forced some blood donor appointments and drives to be canceled. Please know, the Red Cross is working tirelessly to overcome these obstacles to meet the needs of patients as quickly as possible. We apologize for any inconvenience. Please do not feel discouraged if there is not an immediate appointment available — patients still need you. During this challenging time, we hope you will still be able to find a location and time to give for patients who are counting on us. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can donors wear a mask at a blood drive?","description": "Yes. As the nation actively responds and navigates to this evolving pandemic, we are all having to make difficult decisions to ensure our health and safety. The Red Cross follows the highest standards of safety and infection control. For the safety of our donors and staff, the Red Cross requires all those at blood drives and blood donation centers to wear a face mask regardless of their vaccination status. Valve face masks are not permitted. Face shields can be worn in addition to face masks but not as a substitute. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can staff or donors wear face masks with valves?","description": "In alignment with the CDC, the Red Cross does not permit valve face masks at our blood drives or donation centers for employees, volunteers or donors. Valve face masks protect the individual wearing the mask, but do not protect those who come into contact with them. The Red Cross is committed to ensuring the safest environment possible for all those who engage in our lifesaving mission. If a donor or staff would like to wear a valve mask, they will need to place an additional mask, such as a surgical mask or cloth mask, over the valve mask while at the blood drive. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Am I eligible to donate if I have been quarantined for COVID-19?","description": "If you are quarantined for any reason, you are not eligible to donate during the quarantine time period. If you are past the quarantine time and have been symptom-free for 10 days, you will be eligible to donate blood. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What if I become sick after donating?","description": "Donors should call our Donor Support Center at 1-866-236-3276 if they become sick with any illness in the days after their donation. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can I donate after receiving the COVID-19 vaccination?","description": "You may still donate blood, platelets and plasma after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. Knowing the name of the manufacturer of the vaccine is important in determining your blood donation eligibility. Learn more about COVID-19 vaccines and blood donation. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Are Red Cross staff members required to wear face masks?","description": "Beginning April 25, the Red Cross no longer requires that its vaccinated employees and volunteers wear masks. Of course, individuals may choose to continue to wear a mask for any reason and we will continue to make masks available for those in attendance at blood drives and donation centers. If state or local laws differ from our policy, the Red Cross will remain in compliance with these laws. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What safety precautions are in place at Red Cross blood drives to protect staff and donors?","description": "Safety is our top priority. The Red Cross only collects blood from individuals who are healthy and feeling well at the time of donation. At each blood drive and donation center, Red Cross employees have always followed thorough safety protocols to help prevent the spread of any type of infection, including: • Wearing gloves and changing gloves often • Routinely disinfecting donor-touched areas • Using sterile collection sets for every donation, and • Preparing the arm for donation with an aseptic scrub. Additionally, we will continue to utilize additional precautions put into place earlier during the pandemic to ensure the safety of our employees, volunteers and donors, including: • Hand sanitizer available at all drives • Donation appointment emphasis to help manage the flow of donors at drives. • Social distancing where possible. These mitigation measures will help ensure staff and donor safety in reducing contact with those who may potentially have COVID-19 or any respiratory infection. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can donors wear a mask at a blood drive or blood donation center?","description": "Yes, individuals may choose to continue to wear a mask for any reason, and we will continue to make masks available for those in attendance at blood drives and donation centers. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Is the Red Cross testing for COVID-19 antibodies?","description": "The American Red Cross is no longer testing all donations for COVID-19 antibodies. The Red Cross resumed testing all donations for COVID-19 antibodies to help build up its inventory of convalescent plasma to help critically ill patients battling the virus amid the delta and omicron surges this past winter. Since then, the Red Cross has been able to build a sufficient inventory of convalescent plasma products to meet the needs of patients now and in the future. As such, only donations collected through June 3, 2022, will be tested for COVID-19 antibodies. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What if I have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 10 days?","description": "You must be fully recovered from COVID-19 and symptom-free for a least 10 days before donating blood. If you have had a positive diagnostic test in the past 10 days for COVID-19 but didn’t have symptoms, you will need to wait 10 days after the COVID-19 test. If you have a pending COVID-19 diagnostic test for COVID-19, you are not able to donate during this time. Once you have tested negative or been symptom-free for 10 days you will be eligible to donate blood. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What if a blood donor has a special health condition and would like their phlebotomist to wear a mask?","description": "Red Cross employees and volunteers will graciously accommodate mask requests from donors where close interaction occurs. There are many reasons individuals may need additional safety protocols during the pandemic, and as a humanitarian organization, we will continue to be understanding and caring to all. The Red Cross will also continue to socially distance wherever possible at our blood drives, donation centers and facilities. Safety remains our top priority. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "When will donors be notified of their test results? And how can donors access test results? ","description": "Red Cross donors can expect to receive the results of their sickle cell trait screening within one to two weeks through our Red Cross Blood Donor App or on our donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why does the Red Cross ask donors to select their race at the time of donation?","description": "The Red Cross asks blood and platelet donors to select their race and ethnicity at the time of donation to help meet the unique transfusion needs of a diverse patient population. By identifying a donor’s race and ethnicity, it helps the Red Cross better and more efficiently locate rare blood types to best meet the needs of all patients of all backgrounds. Certain blood characteristics are inherited making them more likely to be found within certain donor groups. These matched blood products provide a more compatible unit for transfusion to patients in need. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What does a “inconsistent” result mean? ","description": "An inconsistent result means that the Red Cross is not able to confirm a positive or negative screening result. In some cases, this is because the Red Cross immunohematology-reference laboratory may have previously tested their donation for sickle cell trait at the request of a hospital to fulfill a specific product need. In these cases, the donor may have received a previous result of negative or positive. While the Red Cross will work to resolve many inconsistent results, portion will remain inconsistent. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What does it mean to carry the sickle cell trait? ","description": "It is estimated that about 1 in 13 Black or African American babies in the U.S. is born with sickle cell trait, which means they have inherited the sickle cell gene from one of their parents. Carrying the sickle cell trait does not mean that an individual has sickle cell disease. Individuals who only carry the sickle cell trait are eligible to donate blood. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How does this screening differ from a sickle cell trait diagnostic test? ","description": "Sickle cell trait screening is not a diagnostic test. This screening is performed on a blood sample given during the standard donation process to look for the presence of an abnormal type of hemoglobin, called hemoglobin S or sickled hemoglobin, a key indicator of sickle cell trait. This means it is likely the individual inherited one sickle cell gene and one normal gene from their parents. If an individual receives a positive result, they should consult their medical provider to discuss their test results and pursue additional confirmatory diagnostic testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why is the Red Cross only screening donations from African American donors for sickle cell trait?","description": "The Red Cross is testing blood donations from individuals of African descent because the sickle cell disease trait is most commonly carried within this demographic. In fact, 8-10% of African Americans have sickle cell trait. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How is the Red Cross able to fund sickle cell screening if it is not charging donors? ","description": "The Red Cross is working to rally the support of generous financial donors to help fund this program. We are also looking into other possible funding sources. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why is it beneficial for Black individuals to know if they have the sickle cell trait? ","description": "Many individuals with sickle cell trait are unaware of their status. Sickle cell trait is inherited and means that an individual received one sickle cell gene and one normal gene from their parents. While, carrying the trait does not mean that an individual has sickle cell disease, health experts recommend that individuals with sickle cell trait be aware of their status and consult their medical provider on what it means for them. In general, many individuals who carry the sickle cell trait have no medical problems related to sickle cell trait. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How accurate are the sickle cell test screenings the Red Cross is using? ","description": "The sickle cell trait screenings the Red Cross is using are highly accurate and effective at detecting the presence of an abnormal type of hemoglobin a key indicator of sickle cell trait. However, these screening are not perfect. As with all tests and screening, false results, or a screening result that incorrectly states the presence of abnormal hemoglobin, can occur. This is why those who receive a positive result are encouraged to consult their medical provider for confirmatory testing and discuss what their results mean for them. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How long will the Red Cross be screening blood donations for the sickle cell trait? ","description": "The Red Cross plans to screen blood, platelet and plasma donations from self-identified African American blood donors through June 30, 2023. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Will there be a donor charge for this screening? ","description": "No. Like other blood donation screenings, sickle cell trait screening is part of the blood donation testing process which occurs at no charge to the donor. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why is the Red Cross expanding it’s testing to include sickle cell trait screening on all donations from self-identified African American donors.","description": "We understand that for many donors, having greater insight into their health during this pandemic is important to them—as such the Red Cross has expanded its testing to include sickle cell trait screening on all donations from self-identified African American donors. In addition, this screening helps the Red Cross identify compatible blood types to help sickle cell patients more quickly. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What if someone is not eligible to give blood, can they still receive a sickle cell trait screening? ","description": "Donors will need to have a successful donation to receive sickle cell trait screening results. Per standard donation procedure, only successful donations are sent to our laboratory for screening. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What does it mean to have a negative sickle cell screening result? ","description": "A negative result indicates that screening did not detect sickle hemoglobin or Hemoglobin S—a key indicator of sickle cell trait. This means that the individual is likely not a sickle cell trait carrier. It is important to note, that the Red Cross is not screening for other abnormal hemoglobin cells that can also cause sickling-- such as Hemoglobin C. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Will sickle cell trait screening change the donation process for presenting donors? ","description": "No. The Red Cross blood donation process at our blood drives and donation centers will not change. Blood, platelet and plasma donations will be screened using samples obtained at the time of donation and sent to a testing laboratory where the samples will also undergo routine screening and infectious disease testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Can individuals that only carry the sickle cell trait donate blood?","description": "Individuals who only carry the sickle cell trait are eligible to donate blood. These blood products will not be used to help sickle cell patients but can help other patients in need of lifesaving blood. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Is this screening a new testing initiative for the Red Cross? ","description": "No. Red Cross immunohematology-reference laboratories (IRL) have historically tested select donations for sickle cell trait at the request of a hospital partner actively looking to fulfill a specific blood product need. This spring we are expanding our screening to include all blood, platelet and plasma donations from self-identified African American donors to allow us to identify compatible blood donations even faster to help patients in need of a blood transfusion. Donations from Black individuals who do not carry the sickle cell trait are often the most compatible blood products for sickle cell patients. However, 51 percent of African Americans have type O (positive or negative) blood, in comparison to approximately 45 percent of white individuals. Type O blood is most often in critical supply as it is most often needed by hospitals. Black donors play a vital role in helping meet the needs of all patients including—individuals who experience complicated childbirths, people fighting cancer, and accident victims being raced to emergency rooms. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Do donors need to have a successful donation to receive a sickle cell trait screening result? ","description": "Yes. Donors will need to have a successful donation to receive sickle cell trait screening results. Per standard donation procedure, only successful donations are sent to our laboratory for testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What if I don’t have the app or have internet access? How can I get my test results? ","description": "The Red Cross encourages donors to access their screening results through our Red Cross Blood Donor App or on our donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org. This will provide the most expedient access to test results. If a donor has questions or issues with the Blood Donor App or portal functionality, please contact 855-210-1278. If a donor does not have internet service and therefore cannot use the two recommended channels, they may call the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center 14 days after donation at 1-866-236-3276 to obtain their results. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What test is the Red Cross using to screen donations for the sickle cell trait? ","description": "The Red Cross is using the Pacific Hemostasis® SickleScreen® Sickling Hemoglobin Screening Kit and the Streck Sickledex® Solubility Testing Kit. This test is used to detect abnormal sickling hemoglobin cells or Hemoglobin S. We recognize there are other abnormal hemoglobin cells that can cause sickling however this test rarely detects of presence of these other hemoglobin cells. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why wasn’t my donation screened for sickle cell trait? ","description": "While rare, some donations may not be able to be tested due to processing issues. Donors will need to have a successful donation to receive sickle cell trait screening results. Per standard procedures, only successful donations are sent to our laboratory for testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What does it mean to have a positive sickle cell screening result? ","description": "A positive result indicates that the screening detected the presence of an abnormal type of hemoglobin called hemoglobin S or sickle hemoglobin, a key indicator of sickle cell trait. This means it is likely the individual inherited one sickle cell gene and one normal gene from their parents. If an individual receives a positive result, they should consult their medical provider to discuss their test results and pursue additional confirmatory testing. In addition to providing individuals with their results via the Blood Donor App and donor portal on RedCrossBlood.org, those who have positive results will also receive a letter in the mail. It’s important to note, that carrying the sickle cell trait does not mean that an individual has sickle cell disease. In general, many individuals who carry the sickle cell trait have no medical problems related to sickle cell trait. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Is this sickle cell trait screenings the Red Cross is using FDA approved? ","description": "The Red Cross is using the Pacific Hemostasis® SickleScreen® Sickling Hemoglobin Screening Kit and the Streck Sickledex® Solubility Testing Kit to screen donations from self-identified African Americans for abnormal hemoglobin—a key indicator of sickle cell trait. Both screenings are authorized for use by the FDA and are highly accurate. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Will the Red Cross be providing sickle cell trait screening results to anyone beside the donor? ","description": "No. The Red Cross will not release your screening result or any other test result without your written permission unless required by law. The Red Cross is only required to report positive sickle cell trait results in writing to donor. We do encourage those individuals who receive a positive sickle cell trait result to consult their medical provider to discuss their test results and pursue additional confirmatory testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What if a donor does not want to have their donation screened for sickle cell trait? ","description": "If an individual does not want their donation to be screened for sickle cell trait, they should select the “I prefer not to answer or other” response regarding their race and ethnicity. Only donations from self-identified African American donors will be screened for sickle cell trait. Self-identifying your race and ethnicity helps the Red Cross better and more efficiently locate rare blood types to best meet the needs of all patients of all backgrounds. Certain blood characteristics are inherited making them more likely to be found within certain donor groups. These matched blood products provide a more compatible unit for transfusion to patients in need ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How does this screening test differ from the required sickle cell test performed on newborns at risk for sickle cell disease and/or sickle cell trait? ","description": "Since May 2006, all babies receive a newborn screening test for sickle cell anemia to identify a potential medical emergency, appropriately treat the disease early and reduce infant mortality. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Will every donation be screened every time? ","description": "No, because a donor’s sickle cell trait status does not change over time, donations will only be tested once. This information, along with other blood type attributes becomes part of an individual’s confidential donor record and is used to help the Red Cross identify compatible units for patients in crisis as quickly as possible. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": " Why isn’t the Red Cross testing self-identified mixed-race individuals for sickle cell trait?","description": "While it’s true that people of all races and ethnicities can carry the sickle cell trait, its most commonly Aspirin, no waiting period for donating whole blood. However, you must wait 2 full days after taking aspirin or any medication containing aspirin before donating platelets by apheresis. For example, if you take aspirin products on Monday, the soonest you can donate platelets is Thursday. ","category": {"name": "Medications and Vaccinations","slug": "eligibility-medications"}},{"title": "Antibiotics","description": "A donor with an acute infection can not donate. The reason for antibiotic use must be evaluated to determine if the donor has a bacterial infection that could be transmissible by blood. Acceptable after finishing oral antibiotics for an infection (bacterial or viral). Can have taken last pill on the date of donation. Antibiotic by injection for an infection acceptable 10 days after last injection. Acceptable if you are taking antibiotics to prevent an infection for the following reasons: acne, chronic prostatitis, peptic ulcer disease, periodontal disease, pre-dental work, rosacea, ulcerative colitis, after a splenectomy, or valvular heart disease. If you have a temperature above 99.5 F, you can not donate. ","category": {"name": "Medications and Vaccinations","slug": "eligibility-medications"}},{"title": "Birth Control","description": "Individuals on oral contraceptives or using other forms of birth control are eligible to donate.
Donors with diabetes who take any kind of insulin are eligible to donate as long their diabetes is well controlled. ","category": {"name": "Medications and Vaccinations","slug": "eligibility-medications"}},{"title": "Medications","description": "In almost all cases, medications will not disqualify you as a blood donor. Your eligibility will be based on the reason that the medication was prescribed. As long as the condition is under control and you are healthy, blood donation is usually permitted. Over-the-counter oral homeopathic medications, herbal remedies, and nutritional supplements are acceptable. There are a handful of drugs that are of special significance in blood donation. Persons on these drugs have waiting periods following their last dose before they can donate blood:
Unable to Give Blood?
You must weigh at least 110 lbs to be eligible for blood donation for your own safety. Students who donate at high school drives and donors 18 years of age or younger must also meet additional height and weight requirements for whole blood donation (applies to girls shorter than 5'5" and boys shorter than 5'). Unable to Give Blood? Acceptable as long as you feel well, have no fever, and have no problems breathing through your mouth.
You can be exposed to malaria through travel and travel in some areas can sometimes defer donors. If you have traveled outside of the United States and Canada, your travel destinations will be reviewed at the time of donation. Come prepared to your donation process with your travel details when you donate. You can download the travel form and bring it with you to help in the assessment of your travel. You can call 866-236-3276 to speak with an eligibility specialist about your travel. If, in the past 3 years, you have been outside the United States or Canada:
Malaria is transmitted by the bite of mosquitoes found in certain countries and can be transmitted to patients through blood transfusion. Blood donations are not tested for malaria because there is no sensitive blood test available for malaria. If you have traveled or lived in a malaria-risk country, a waiting period is required before you can donate blood
Unable to Give Blood? If you have been diagnosed with Zika virus infection, wait more than 120 days after your symptoms resolve to donate. Unable to Give Blood? You are not eligible to donate if you have ever had Ebola virus infection or disease. Unable to Give Blood? Acceptable as long as you feel well, have no fever, and have no problems breathing through your mouth. Acceptable as long as you do not have any limitations on daily activities and are not having difficulty breathing at the time of donation and you otherwise feel well. Medications for asthma do not disqualify you from donating. If you have a history of bleeding problems, you will be asked additional questions. If your blood does not clot normally, you can not donate since you may have excessive bleeding where the needle was placed. For the same reason, do not donate if you are taking any "blood thinner" such as:
If you are on aspirin, it is OK to donate whole blood. However, you must be off of aspirin for at least 2 full days in order to donate platelets by apheresis. For example, if you take aspirin products on Monday, the soonest you can donate platelets is Thursday. Donors with clotting disorder from Factor V who are not on anticoagulants are eligible to donate; however, all others must be evaluated by the health historian at the collection center. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Blood Pressure (High or Low)","description": "High Blood Pressure - Acceptable as long as your blood pressure is below 180 systolic (first number) and below 100 diastolic (second number) at the time of donation. Medications for high blood pressure do not disqualify you from donating. Low Blood Pressure - Acceptable as long as you feel well when you come to donate, and your blood pressure is at least 90/50 (systolic/diastolic). Learn more about Blood Pressure ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Pulse (High or Low)","description": "Acceptable as long as your pulse is no more than 100 and no less than 50. A pulse that is regular and less than 50 will require evaluation by the regional American Red Cross physician. When you come to donate blood at the American Red Cross, we measure your blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and hemoglobin because the results provide information about your current health at the time of your donation. The Red Cross does not diagnose medical conditions or offer treatment. Physical exam results vary throughout the day. Stress, nutrition, illness, hydration, weight, activity, environment and even consumption of certain ingredients (for example, salt or caffeine) can affect the results of the physical exam. If your result does not meet the minimum/maximum requirement at the time of your attempted donation you will not be permitted to donate. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Cancer","description": "Eligibility depends on the type of cancer and treatment history. If you had leukemia or lymphoma, including Hodgkin’s Disease and other cancers of the blood, you are not eligible to donate. Other types of cancer are acceptable if the cancer has been treated successfully and it has been more than 12 months since treatment was completed and there has been no cancer recurrence in this time. Lower risk in-situ cancers including squamous or basal cell cancers of the skin that have been completely removed and healed do not require a 12-month waiting period. Unable to Give Blood? Most chronic illnesses are acceptable as long as you feel well, the condition is under control, and you meet all other eligibility requirements. Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) If you ever received a dura mater (brain covering) transplant you are not eligible to donate. If you received an injection of cadaveric pituitary human growth hormone (hGH) you cannot donate. Human cadaveric pituitary-derived hGH was available in the U.S. from 1958 to 1985. Growth hormone received after 1985 is acceptable. If you have been diagnosed with vCJD, CJD or any other TSE or have a blood relative diagnosed with genetic CJD (e.g., fCJD, GSS, or FFI) you cannot donate. See Eligibility Reference Material Unable to Give Blood? Diabetics who are well controlled on insulin or oral medications are eligible to donate. In general, acceptable as long as you have been medically evaluated and treated, have no current (within the last 6 months) heart related symptoms such as chest pain and have no limitations or restrictions on your normal daily activities. Wait at least 6 months following an episode of angina. Wait at least 6 months following a heart attack. Wait at least 6 months after bypass surgery or angioplasty. Wait at least 6 months after a change in your heart condition that resulted in a change to your medications If you have a pacemaker, you can donate as long as your pulse is between 50 and 100 beats per minute and you meet the other heart disease criteria. Discuss your particular situation with your personal healthcare provider and the health historian at the time of donation. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Heart Murmur, Heart Valve Disorder","description": "Acceptable if you have a heart murmur as long as you have been medically evaluated and treated and have not had symptoms in the last 6 months and have no restrictions on your normal daily activities. Acceptable if you meet all eligibility criteria and donation intervals. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, Blood Count","description": "In order to donate blood, a woman must have a hemoglobin level of at least 12.5 g/dL, and a man must have a hemoglobin level of at least 13.0 g/dL. For all donors, the hemoglobin level can be no greater than 20 g/dL. When you come to donate blood at the American Red Cross, we measure your blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and hemoglobin because the results provide information about your current health at the time of your donation. The Red Cross does not diagnose medical conditions or offer treatment. Physical exam results vary throughout the day. Stress, nutrition, illness, hydration, weight, activity, environment and even consumption of certain ingredients (for example, salt or caffeine) can affect the results of the physical exam. If your result does not meet the minimum/maximum requirement at the time of your attempted donation you will not be permitted to donate. Separate requirements for hemoglobin level apply for Power Red. Learn more about Hematocrit. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Hepatitis, Jaundice","description": "If you have signs or symptoms of hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) caused by a virus, or unexplained jaundice (yellow discoloration of the skin), you are not eligible to donate blood. If you ever tested positive for hepatitis B or hepatitis C, at any age, you are not eligible to donate, even if you were never sick or jaundiced from the infection. Unable to Give Blood? If you live with or have had sexual contact with a person who has hepatitis, you must wait 12 months after the last contact. Persons who have been detained or incarcerated in a facility (juvenile detention, lockup, jail, or prison) for 72 hours or more consecutively (3 days) are deferred for 12 months from the date of last occurrence. This includes work release programs and weekend incarceration. These persons are at higher risk for exposure to infectious diseases. Wait 3 months after receiving a blood transfusion (unless it was your own "autologous" blood), non-sterile needle stick or exposure to someone else's blood. Unable to Give Blood? Do not give blood if you have AIDS or have ever had a positive HIV test, or if you have done something that puts you at risk for becoming infected with HIV. You are at risk for getting infected if you:
Do not give blood if you have any of the following conditions that can be signs or symptoms of HIV/AIDS:
Unable to Give Blood? See "Blood Pressure (High)" If you have a fever or an active infection, wait until the infection has resolved completely before donating blood. Monkeypox infection or exposure, wait a minimum of 21 days, then contact the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center at 1-866-236-3276 to discuss your particular situation to determine if you can donate. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Malaria","description": "Malaria is transmitted by the bite of mosquitoes found in certain countries and can be transmitted to patients through blood transfusion. Blood donations are not tested for malaria because there is no sensitive blood test available for malaria. If you have traveled or lived in a malaria-risk country, a waiting period is required before you can donate blood.
If you have traveled outside of the United States and Canada, your travel destinations will be reviewed at the time of donation. Please, come prepared to discuss your travel details when you donate. You can download the travel form and bring it with you to help in the assessment of your travel. You can call 866-236-3276 to speak with an eligibility specialist about your travel. If, in the past 3 years, you have been outside the United States or Canada:
Acceptable if you have sickle cell trait. Those with sickle cell disease are not eligible to donate. Acceptable as long as the skin over the vein to be used to collect blood is not affected. If the skin disease has become infected, wait until the infection has cleared before donating. Taking antibiotics to control acne does not disqualify you from donating. If you have active tuberculosis or are being treated for active tuberculosis do not donate. Acceptable if you have a positive skin test or blood test, but no active tuberculosis and are NOT taking antibiotics. If you are receiving antibiotics for a positive TB skin test or blood test only or if you are being treated for a tuberculosis infection, wait until treatment is successfully completed before donating. Donors who have undergone acupuncture treatments are acceptable. Wait for 3 months after receiving a blood transfusion from another person. Acceptable after dental procedures as long as there is no infection present. Wait until finishing antibiotics for a dental infection. Wait for 3 days after having oral surgery. Women on hormone replacement therapy for menopausal symptoms and prevention of osteoporosis are eligible to donate. Wait 3 months after receiving any type of organ transplant from another person. If you ever received a dura mater (brain covering) transplant, you are not eligible to donate. This requirement is related to concerns about the brain disease, Creutzfeld-Jacob Disease (CJD). If you ever received a transplant of animal organs or of living animal tissue - you are not eligible to donate blood. Non-living animal tissues such as bone, tendon, or heart valves are acceptable. Unable to Give Blood? It is not necessarily surgery but the underlying condition that precipitated the surgery that requires evaluation before donation. Evaluation is on a case by case basis. Discuss your particular situation with the health historian at the time of donation. You must be at least 17 years old to donate to the general blood supply, or 16 years old with parental/guardian consent, if allowed by state law. Learn more. There is no upper age limit for blood donation as long as you are well with no restrictions or limitations to your activities. First-time male donors may be eligible to donate blood if they have not had sex with another man in more than 3 months. All additional blood donation eligibility criteria will apply. Donors who were previously deferred under the prior MSM policy will be evaluated for reinstatement. Individuals who have been deferred for MSM in the past can initiate donor reinstatement by contacting the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center at 1-866-236-3276. Individuals with questions about their donation eligibility can contact the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center at 1-866-236-3276. For the purposes of blood donation gender is self-identified and self-reported, which is relevant to the transgender community. More information about the FDA policy is available for LGBTQ+ donors. Unable to Give Blood? Wait 3 months after using IV drugs that were not prescribed by a physician. This requirement is related to concerns about hepatitis and HIV. Learn more about hepatitis and blood donation. Persons who are pregnant are not eligible to donate. Wait 6 weeks after giving birth. Wait 3 months after a tattoo if the tattoo was applied in a state that does not regulate tattoo facilities. Currently, the only states that DO NOT regulate tattoo facilities are: District of Columbia, Georgia, Idaho, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Utah and Wyoming. This requirement is related to concerns about hepatitis. Learn more about hepatitis and blood donation. Wait 3 months after treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea. Acceptable if it has been more than 3 months since you completed treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea. Chlamydia, venereal warts (human papilloma virus), or genital herpes are not a cause for deferral if you are feeling healthy and well and meet all other eligibility requirements. Unable to Give Blood? Do not give blood if you have AIDS or have ever had a positive HIV test, or if you have done something that puts you at risk for becoming infected with HIV. You are at risk for getting infected if you:
Do not give blood if you have any of the following conditions that can be signs or symptoms of HIV/AIDS:
Wait 3 months after the last dose of any oral medications taken to prevent HIV infection [also known as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) - Truvada (Tenofovir), Descovy (emtricitabine), Tivicay (dolutegravir) and Isentress (raltegravir) are oral medications given for exposure to HIV. Wait 2 years after the last injection or shot of medication taken to prevent HIV infection also known as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)- Apretude (cabotegravir ) are injections or shots given for exposure to HIV. Unable to Give Blood? See also "Sexually Transmitted Disease" Wait 3 months after treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea. Chlamydia, venereal warts (human papilloma virus), or genital herpes are not a cause for deferral if you are feeling healthy and well and meet all other eligibility requirements. ","category": {"name": "Sexually Transmitted Diseases","slug": "eligibility-stds"}},{"title": "Syphilis/Gonorrhea","description": "Wait 3 months after treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea. Acceptable as long as the instruments used were single-use equipment and disposable (which means both the gun and the earring cassette were disposable). Wait 3 months if a piercing was performed using a reusable gun or any reusable instrument. Wait 3 months if there is any question whether or not the instruments used were single-use equipment. This requirement is related to concerns about hepatitis. Learn more about hepatitis and blood donation. ","category": {"name": "Lifestyle and Life Events","slug": "eligibility-lifestyle"}},{"title": "Measles Exposure","description": "Acceptable if you are healthy and well and have been vaccinated for measles more than 4 weeks ago or were born before 1956. If you have not been vaccinated or it has been less than 4 weeks since being vaccinated, wait 4 weeks from the date of the vaccination or exposure before donating. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "I am interested in hosting a blood drive, who do I contact?","description": "Please complete this online form and a Red Cross representative will contact you. Any organization can participate in the blood program. Based on experience, the organization should have enough members to hold a blood drive, but your Red Cross representative will work with you determine how you can partner with the Red Cross if you have fewer people. Learn more about requirements for hosting. Blood drives can be held either on a Red Cross blood donation bus or in the facility of the hosting organization. Most sponsors choose to host the drive in their facility. However, our Red Cross representative will work with you to determine the best set up for your blood drive. Please see recruitment strategies and tips. All donors are required to be truly “volunteer” donors by the FDA, and not be reimbursed for their donation, so any gift or incentive offered must be offered to all participants of a blood drive – donors and volunteers alike. This helps ensure all people are honest about their health history. All incentives offered must be reviewed and approved by your Red Cross representative. Red Cross employees implemented added precautions to ensure blood drives and donation centers are safe for donors and staff. Learn about the COVID-19 safety precautions at Red Cross blood drives. If you work for an American Red Cross Immunohematology Reference Lab (IRL) or Creative Testing Solutions (CTS) you are an “internal” customer. Any other customer is considered “external.” Our easy to use website contains versions of the Directions for Use associated with each in date lot number of product. This saves everyone money by not printing extra paper copies. Some antibody specificities require adsorption with red blood cells to remove unwanted antibodies (eg. Anti-A, Anti-B, Anti-D). During this process some hemolysis occurs, which colors the serum. Depending on the number of adsorptions required, the color may be darker or lighter. The color does not affect the antigen-antibody reaction. Human plasma is composed of many proteins. They are sometimes more visible from one reagent to another. American Red Cross IRLs or CTS order their products directly from DMD via Contact DMD . External customers must order products via our distributor, Hemo Bioscience, Inc. Navigate to the specific page associated with the product. Select the lot number (printed on the product vial); the associated Directions for Use will load as a .pdf file. If this does not work, please contact us at Contact DMD Hemo Bioscience, Inc. offers a more comprehensive product line to make your ordering easier. Directions for Use do not change often; the version is updated when changes are made. The version is located following the text, usually at the bottom right.
No, they are produced from pools of donor antibody plasma, making them polyclonal reagents. Storage requirements are listed on the label and in the Directions for Use. Directions for Use do not change often; the version is updated when changes are made. The version is located following the text, usually at the bottom right.
Donating blood is a simple thing to do, but can make a big difference in the lives of others. The donation process from the time you arrive until the time you leave takes about an hour. The donation itself is only about 8-10 minutes on average. The steps in the process are: Registration
Health History and Mini Physical
Donation
Refreshments
Your gift of blood may help up to three people. Donated red blood cells do not last forever. They have a shelf-life of up to 42 days. A healthy donor may donate every 56 days. ","category": {"name": "Blood Donation Process","slug": "donating-blood-blood-donation-process"}},{"title": "What should I do after donating blood?","description": "After you give blood: Take the following precautions:
Only for a moment. Pinch the fleshy, soft underside of your arm. That pinch is similar to what you will feel when the needle is inserted. The entire process takes about one hour and 15 minutes; the actual donation of a pint of whole blood unit takes eight to 10 minutes. However, the time varies slightly with each person depending on several factors including the donor’s health history and attendance at the blood drive. The plasma from your donation is replaced within about 24 hours. Red cells need about four to six weeks for complete replacement. That’s why at least eight weeks are required between whole blood donations. The highest priorities of the Red Cross are the safety of the blood supply and our blood donors. Some individuals may be at risk of transferring communicable disease through blood donation due to exposure via travel or other activities or may encounter problems with blood donation due to their health. We ask these questions to ensure that it is safe for patients to receive your blood and to ensure that it is safe for you to donate blood that day. You must wait at least eight weeks (56 days) between donations of whole blood and 16 weeks (112 days) between Power Red donations. Whole blood donors can donate up to 6 times a year. Platelet apheresis donors may give every 7 days up to 24 times per year. Regulations are different for those giving blood for themselves (autologous donors). In most states, donors must be age 17 or older. Some states allow donation by 16-year-olds with a signed parental consent form. Donors must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Additional eligibility criteria apply. At this time, we are allowing additional guests or children to accompany donors to their donation appointment. Guests are expected to follow any safety protocols in place at the time of donation. The safety of our donors, volunteers, and employees is of the utmost importance. Children who do not require supervision and are not disruptive are welcome to sit in the waiting or refreshment area. If they require supervision another adult must be present. ","category": {"name": "Blood Donation Process","slug": "donating-blood-blood-donation-process"}},{"title": "What is apheresis?","description": "Apheresis is the process by which platelets and other specific blood components (red cells or plasma) are collected from a donor. The word “apheresis” is derived from the Greek word aphaeresis meaning “to take away.” This process is accomplished by using a machine called a cell separator. Blood is drawn from the donor and the platelets, or another blood component, are collected by the cell separator and the remaining components of the blood are returned to the donor during the donation. Each apheresis donation procedure takes about one-and-one-half to two hours. Donors can watch movies or relax during the donation. Platelets are tiny, colorless, disc-shaped particles circulating in the blood, and they are essential for normal blood clotting. Platelets are critically important to the survival of many patients with clotting problems (aplastic anemia, leukemia) or cancer, and patients who will undergo organ transplants or major surgeries like heart bypass grafts. Platelets can only be stored for five days after being collected. Maintaining an adequate supply of this lifesaving, perishable product is an ongoing challenge. Every 7 days up to 24 apheresis donations can be made in a year. Some apheresis donations can generate two or three adult-sized platelet transfusion doses from one donation! Healthy individuals are needed to help patients counting on lifesaving blood. The need for blood is constant, and volunteer donors are the only source of blood for those in need of transfusions. Blood donation is an "essential service" and "critical infrastructure" function as determined by the United States Department of Homeland Security and many other federal, state and local authorities. Like a hospital, grocery store, or pharmacy, a blood drive is essential to ensuring the health of the community, and the Red Cross will continue to hold blood drives during this challenging time to help meet patient needs. The Department of Health and Human Services, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Food and Drug Administration have issued statements encouraging blood donation for those who are well. It’s important to note that blood drives have the high standards of safety and infection control. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What safety precautions are in place at Red Cross blood drives to protect staff and donors? ","description": "Safety is our top priority. The Red Cross only collects blood from individuals who are healthy and feeling well at the time of donation. To help keep everyone attending Red Cross blood drives and visiting blood donation centers safe as COVID-19 cases are surging again, the Red Cross requires all blood donors, staff and others to wear a face mask regardless of their vaccination status. At each blood drive and donation center, Red Cross employees have always followed thorough safety protocols to help prevent the spread of any type of infection, including: • Wearing gloves and changing gloves often • Routinely disinfecting donor-touched areas • Using sterile collection sets for every donation, and • Preparing the arm for donation with an aseptic scrub. Additionally, we will continue to utilize additional precautions put into place earlier during the pandemic– to ensure the safety of our employees, volunteers and donors, including: • Hand sanitizer available before entering the drive, as well as throughout the donation process. • All surfaces and equipment receive enhanced disinfection. • Donation appointment emphasis to help manage the flow of donors at drives. These mitigation measures will help ensure staff and donor safety in reducing contact with those who may potentially have COVID-19, or any, respiratory infection. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can donors wear homemade masks, such as cloth masks, bandanas, etc.?","description": "Yes, as long as the cloth or homemade mask covers both their nose and mouth in alignment with updated CDC guidelines. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What if a donor doesn’t want to wear a mask? For example, what if they have a medical condition that makes it difficult or impossible to wear a mask?","description": "To ensure the safety of our staff and the blood donor community, if a donor does not want to wear a face mask, we ask they postpone their donation for a later date when masks may no longer be required. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "I tried to make an appointment to donate blood, but there are no blood drives near me?","description": "Like many organizations, the Red Cross continues to face pandemic challenges that have forced some blood donor appointments and drives to be canceled. Please know, the Red Cross is working tirelessly to overcome these obstacles to meet the needs of patients as quickly as possible. We apologize for any inconvenience. Please do not feel discouraged if there is not an immediate appointment available — patients still need you. During this challenging time, we hope you will still be able to find a location and time to give for patients who are counting on us. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can donors wear a mask at a blood drive?","description": "Yes. As the nation actively responds and navigates to this evolving pandemic, we are all having to make difficult decisions to ensure our health and safety. The Red Cross follows the highest standards of safety and infection control. For the safety of our donors and staff, the Red Cross requires all those at blood drives and blood donation centers to wear a face mask regardless of their vaccination status. Valve face masks are not permitted. Face shields can be worn in addition to face masks but not as a substitute. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can staff or donors wear face masks with valves?","description": "In alignment with the CDC, the Red Cross does not permit valve face masks at our blood drives or donation centers for employees, volunteers or donors. Valve face masks protect the individual wearing the mask, but do not protect those who come into contact with them. The Red Cross is committed to ensuring the safest environment possible for all those who engage in our lifesaving mission. If a donor or staff would like to wear a valve mask, they will need to place an additional mask, such as a surgical mask or cloth mask, over the valve mask while at the blood drive. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Am I eligible to donate if I have been quarantined for COVID-19?","description": "If you are quarantined for any reason, you are not eligible to donate during the quarantine time period. If you are past the quarantine time and have been symptom-free for 10 days, you will be eligible to donate blood. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What if I become sick after donating?","description": "Donors should call our Donor Support Center at 1-866-236-3276 if they become sick with any illness in the days after their donation. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can I donate after receiving the COVID-19 vaccination?","description": "You may still donate blood, platelets and plasma after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. Knowing the name of the manufacturer of the vaccine is important in determining your blood donation eligibility. Learn more about COVID-19 vaccines and blood donation. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Are Red Cross staff members required to wear face masks?","description": "Beginning April 25, the Red Cross no longer requires that its vaccinated employees and volunteers wear masks. Of course, individuals may choose to continue to wear a mask for any reason and we will continue to make masks available for those in attendance at blood drives and donation centers. If state or local laws differ from our policy, the Red Cross will remain in compliance with these laws. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What safety precautions are in place at Red Cross blood drives to protect staff and donors?","description": "Safety is our top priority. The Red Cross only collects blood from individuals who are healthy and feeling well at the time of donation. At each blood drive and donation center, Red Cross employees have always followed thorough safety protocols to help prevent the spread of any type of infection, including: • Wearing gloves and changing gloves often • Routinely disinfecting donor-touched areas • Using sterile collection sets for every donation, and • Preparing the arm for donation with an aseptic scrub. Additionally, we will continue to utilize additional precautions put into place earlier during the pandemic to ensure the safety of our employees, volunteers and donors, including: • Hand sanitizer available at all drives • Donation appointment emphasis to help manage the flow of donors at drives. • Social distancing where possible. These mitigation measures will help ensure staff and donor safety in reducing contact with those who may potentially have COVID-19 or any respiratory infection. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can donors wear a mask at a blood drive or blood donation center?","description": "Yes, individuals may choose to continue to wear a mask for any reason, and we will continue to make masks available for those in attendance at blood drives and donation centers. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Is the Red Cross testing for COVID-19 antibodies?","description": "The American Red Cross is no longer testing all donations for COVID-19 antibodies. The Red Cross resumed testing all donations for COVID-19 antibodies to help build up its inventory of convalescent plasma to help critically ill patients battling the virus amid the delta and omicron surges this past winter. Since then, the Red Cross has been able to build a sufficient inventory of convalescent plasma products to meet the needs of patients now and in the future. As such, only donations collected through June 3, 2022, will be tested for COVID-19 antibodies. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What if I have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 10 days?","description": "You must be fully recovered from COVID-19 and symptom-free for a least 10 days before donating blood. If you have had a positive diagnostic test in the past 10 days for COVID-19 but didn’t have symptoms, you will need to wait 10 days after the COVID-19 test. If you have a pending COVID-19 diagnostic test for COVID-19, you are not able to donate during this time. Once you have tested negative or been symptom-free for 10 days you will be eligible to donate blood. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What if a blood donor has a special health condition and would like their phlebotomist to wear a mask?","description": "Red Cross employees and volunteers will graciously accommodate mask requests from donors where close interaction occurs. There are many reasons individuals may need additional safety protocols during the pandemic, and as a humanitarian organization, we will continue to be understanding and caring to all. The Red Cross will also continue to socially distance wherever possible at our blood drives, donation centers and facilities. Safety remains our top priority. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "When will donors be notified of their test results? And how can donors access test results? ","description": "Red Cross donors can expect to receive the results of their sickle cell trait screening within one to two weeks through our Red Cross Blood Donor App or on our donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why does the Red Cross ask donors to select their race at the time of donation?","description": "The Red Cross asks blood and platelet donors to select their race and ethnicity at the time of donation to help meet the unique transfusion needs of a diverse patient population. By identifying a donor’s race and ethnicity, it helps the Red Cross better and more efficiently locate rare blood types to best meet the needs of all patients of all backgrounds. Certain blood characteristics are inherited making them more likely to be found within certain donor groups. These matched blood products provide a more compatible unit for transfusion to patients in need. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What does a “inconsistent” result mean? ","description": "An inconsistent result means that the Red Cross is not able to confirm a positive or negative screening result. In some cases, this is because the Red Cross immunohematology-reference laboratory may have previously tested their donation for sickle cell trait at the request of a hospital to fulfill a specific product need. In these cases, the donor may have received a previous result of negative or positive. While the Red Cross will work to resolve many inconsistent results, portion will remain inconsistent. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What does it mean to carry the sickle cell trait? ","description": "It is estimated that about 1 in 13 Black or African American babies in the U.S. is born with sickle cell trait, which means they have inherited the sickle cell gene from one of their parents. Carrying the sickle cell trait does not mean that an individual has sickle cell disease. Individuals who only carry the sickle cell trait are eligible to donate blood. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How does this screening differ from a sickle cell trait diagnostic test? ","description": "Sickle cell trait screening is not a diagnostic test. This screening is performed on a blood sample given during the standard donation process to look for the presence of an abnormal type of hemoglobin, called hemoglobin S or sickled hemoglobin, a key indicator of sickle cell trait. This means it is likely the individual inherited one sickle cell gene and one normal gene from their parents. If an individual receives a positive result, they should consult their medical provider to discuss their test results and pursue additional confirmatory diagnostic testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why is the Red Cross only screening donations from African American donors for sickle cell trait?","description": "The Red Cross is testing blood donations from individuals of African descent because the sickle cell disease trait is most commonly carried within this demographic. In fact, 8-10% of African Americans have sickle cell trait. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How is the Red Cross able to fund sickle cell screening if it is not charging donors? ","description": "The Red Cross is working to rally the support of generous financial donors to help fund this program. We are also looking into other possible funding sources. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why is it beneficial for Black individuals to know if they have the sickle cell trait? ","description": "Many individuals with sickle cell trait are unaware of their status. Sickle cell trait is inherited and means that an individual received one sickle cell gene and one normal gene from their parents. While, carrying the trait does not mean that an individual has sickle cell disease, health experts recommend that individuals with sickle cell trait be aware of their status and consult their medical provider on what it means for them. In general, many individuals who carry the sickle cell trait have no medical problems related to sickle cell trait. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How accurate are the sickle cell test screenings the Red Cross is using? ","description": "The sickle cell trait screenings the Red Cross is using are highly accurate and effective at detecting the presence of an abnormal type of hemoglobin a key indicator of sickle cell trait. However, these screening are not perfect. As with all tests and screening, false results, or a screening result that incorrectly states the presence of abnormal hemoglobin, can occur. This is why those who receive a positive result are encouraged to consult their medical provider for confirmatory testing and discuss what their results mean for them. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How long will the Red Cross be screening blood donations for the sickle cell trait? ","description": "The Red Cross plans to screen blood, platelet and plasma donations from self-identified African American blood donors through June 30, 2023. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Will there be a donor charge for this screening? ","description": "No. Like other blood donation screenings, sickle cell trait screening is part of the blood donation testing process which occurs at no charge to the donor. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why is the Red Cross expanding it’s testing to include sickle cell trait screening on all donations from self-identified African American donors.","description": "We understand that for many donors, having greater insight into their health during this pandemic is important to them—as such the Red Cross has expanded its testing to include sickle cell trait screening on all donations from self-identified African American donors. In addition, this screening helps the Red Cross identify compatible blood types to help sickle cell patients more quickly. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What if someone is not eligible to give blood, can they still receive a sickle cell trait screening? ","description": "Donors will need to have a successful donation to receive sickle cell trait screening results. Per standard donation procedure, only successful donations are sent to our laboratory for screening. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What does it mean to have a negative sickle cell screening result? ","description": "A negative result indicates that screening did not detect sickle hemoglobin or Hemoglobin S—a key indicator of sickle cell trait. This means that the individual is likely not a sickle cell trait carrier. It is important to note, that the Red Cross is not screening for other abnormal hemoglobin cells that can also cause sickling-- such as Hemoglobin C. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Will sickle cell trait screening change the donation process for presenting donors? ","description": "No. The Red Cross blood donation process at our blood drives and donation centers will not change. Blood, platelet and plasma donations will be screened using samples obtained at the time of donation and sent to a testing laboratory where the samples will also undergo routine screening and infectious disease testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Can individuals that only carry the sickle cell trait donate blood?","description": "Individuals who only carry the sickle cell trait are eligible to donate blood. These blood products will not be used to help sickle cell patients but can help other patients in need of lifesaving blood. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Is this screening a new testing initiative for the Red Cross? ","description": "No. Red Cross immunohematology-reference laboratories (IRL) have historically tested select donations for sickle cell trait at the request of a hospital partner actively looking to fulfill a specific blood product need. This spring we are expanding our screening to include all blood, platelet and plasma donations from self-identified African American donors to allow us to identify compatible blood donations even faster to help patients in need of a blood transfusion. Donations from Black individuals who do not carry the sickle cell trait are often the most compatible blood products for sickle cell patients. However, 51 percent of African Americans have type O (positive or negative) blood, in comparison to approximately 45 percent of white individuals. Type O blood is most often in critical supply as it is most often needed by hospitals. Black donors play a vital role in helping meet the needs of all patients including—individuals who experience complicated childbirths, people fighting cancer, and accident victims being raced to emergency rooms. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Do donors need to have a successful donation to receive a sickle cell trait screening result? ","description": "Yes. Donors will need to have a successful donation to receive sickle cell trait screening results. Per standard donation procedure, only successful donations are sent to our laboratory for testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What if I don’t have the app or have internet access? How can I get my test results? ","description": "The Red Cross encourages donors to access their screening results through our Red Cross Blood Donor App or on our donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org. This will provide the most expedient access to test results. If a donor has questions or issues with the Blood Donor App or portal functionality, please contact 855-210-1278. If a donor does not have internet service and therefore cannot use the two recommended channels, they may call the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center 14 days after donation at 1-866-236-3276 to obtain their results. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What test is the Red Cross using to screen donations for the sickle cell trait? ","description": "The Red Cross is using the Pacific Hemostasis® SickleScreen® Sickling Hemoglobin Screening Kit and the Streck Sickledex® Solubility Testing Kit. This test is used to detect abnormal sickling hemoglobin cells or Hemoglobin S. We recognize there are other abnormal hemoglobin cells that can cause sickling however this test rarely detects of presence of these other hemoglobin cells. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why wasn’t my donation screened for sickle cell trait? ","description": "While rare, some donations may not be able to be tested due to processing issues. Donors will need to have a successful donation to receive sickle cell trait screening results. Per standard procedures, only successful donations are sent to our laboratory for testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What does it mean to have a positive sickle cell screening result? ","description": "A positive result indicates that the screening detected the presence of an abnormal type of hemoglobin called hemoglobin S or sickle hemoglobin, a key indicator of sickle cell trait. This means it is likely the individual inherited one sickle cell gene and one normal gene from their parents. If an individual receives a positive result, they should consult their medical provider to discuss their test results and pursue additional confirmatory testing. In addition to providing individuals with their results via the Blood Donor App and donor portal on RedCrossBlood.org, those who have positive results will also receive a letter in the mail. It’s important to note, that carrying the sickle cell trait does not mean that an individual has sickle cell disease. In general, many individuals who carry the sickle cell trait have no medical problems related to sickle cell trait. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Is this sickle cell trait screenings the Red Cross is using FDA approved? ","description": "The Red Cross is using the Pacific Hemostasis® SickleScreen® Sickling Hemoglobin Screening Kit and the Streck Sickledex® Solubility Testing Kit to screen donations from self-identified African Americans for abnormal hemoglobin—a key indicator of sickle cell trait. Both screenings are authorized for use by the FDA and are highly accurate. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Will the Red Cross be providing sickle cell trait screening results to anyone beside the donor? ","description": "No. The Red Cross will not release your screening result or any other test result without your written permission unless required by law. The Red Cross is only required to report positive sickle cell trait results in writing to donor. We do encourage those individuals who receive a positive sickle cell trait result to consult their medical provider to discuss their test results and pursue additional confirmatory testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What if a donor does not want to have their donation screened for sickle cell trait? ","description": "If an individual does not want their donation to be screened for sickle cell trait, they should select the “I prefer not to answer or other” response regarding their race and ethnicity. Only donations from self-identified African American donors will be screened for sickle cell trait. Self-identifying your race and ethnicity helps the Red Cross better and more efficiently locate rare blood types to best meet the needs of all patients of all backgrounds. Certain blood characteristics are inherited making them more likely to be found within certain donor groups. These matched blood products provide a more compatible unit for transfusion to patients in need ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How does this screening test differ from the required sickle cell test performed on newborns at risk for sickle cell disease and/or sickle cell trait? ","description": "Since May 2006, all babies receive a newborn screening test for sickle cell anemia to identify a potential medical emergency, appropriately treat the disease early and reduce infant mortality. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Will every donation be screened every time? ","description": "No, because a donor’s sickle cell trait status does not change over time, donations will only be tested once. This information, along with other blood type attributes becomes part of an individual’s confidential donor record and is used to help the Red Cross identify compatible units for patients in crisis as quickly as possible. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": " Why isn’t the Red Cross testing self-identified mixed-race individuals for sickle cell trait?","description": "While it’s true that people of all races and ethnicities can carry the sickle cell trait, its most commonly Aspirin, no waiting period for donating whole blood. However, you must wait 2 full days after taking aspirin or any medication containing aspirin before donating platelets by apheresis. For example, if you take aspirin products on Monday, the soonest you can donate platelets is Thursday. ","category": {"name": "Medications and Vaccinations","slug": "eligibility-medications"}},{"title": "Antibiotics","description": "A donor with an acute infection can not donate. The reason for antibiotic use must be evaluated to determine if the donor has a bacterial infection that could be transmissible by blood. Acceptable after finishing oral antibiotics for an infection (bacterial or viral). Can have taken last pill on the date of donation. Antibiotic by injection for an infection acceptable 10 days after last injection. Acceptable if you are taking antibiotics to prevent an infection for the following reasons: acne, chronic prostatitis, peptic ulcer disease, periodontal disease, pre-dental work, rosacea, ulcerative colitis, after a splenectomy, or valvular heart disease. If you have a temperature above 99.5 F, you can not donate. ","category": {"name": "Medications and Vaccinations","slug": "eligibility-medications"}},{"title": "Birth Control","description": "Individuals on oral contraceptives or using other forms of birth control are eligible to donate.
Donors with diabetes who take any kind of insulin are eligible to donate as long their diabetes is well controlled. ","category": {"name": "Medications and Vaccinations","slug": "eligibility-medications"}},{"title": "Medications","description": "In almost all cases, medications will not disqualify you as a blood donor. Your eligibility will be based on the reason that the medication was prescribed. As long as the condition is under control and you are healthy, blood donation is usually permitted. Over-the-counter oral homeopathic medications, herbal remedies, and nutritional supplements are acceptable. There are a handful of drugs that are of special significance in blood donation. Persons on these drugs have waiting periods following their last dose before they can donate blood:
Unable to Give Blood?
You must weigh at least 110 lbs to be eligible for blood donation for your own safety. Students who donate at high school drives and donors 18 years of age or younger must also meet additional height and weight requirements for whole blood donation (applies to girls shorter than 5'5" and boys shorter than 5'). Unable to Give Blood? Acceptable as long as you feel well, have no fever, and have no problems breathing through your mouth.
You can be exposed to malaria through travel and travel in some areas can sometimes defer donors. If you have traveled outside of the United States and Canada, your travel destinations will be reviewed at the time of donation. Come prepared to your donation process with your travel details when you donate. You can download the travel form and bring it with you to help in the assessment of your travel. You can call 866-236-3276 to speak with an eligibility specialist about your travel. If, in the past 3 years, you have been outside the United States or Canada:
Malaria is transmitted by the bite of mosquitoes found in certain countries and can be transmitted to patients through blood transfusion. Blood donations are not tested for malaria because there is no sensitive blood test available for malaria. If you have traveled or lived in a malaria-risk country, a waiting period is required before you can donate blood
Unable to Give Blood? If you have been diagnosed with Zika virus infection, wait more than 120 days after your symptoms resolve to donate. Unable to Give Blood? You are not eligible to donate if you have ever had Ebola virus infection or disease. Unable to Give Blood? Acceptable as long as you feel well, have no fever, and have no problems breathing through your mouth. Acceptable as long as you do not have any limitations on daily activities and are not having difficulty breathing at the time of donation and you otherwise feel well. Medications for asthma do not disqualify you from donating. If you have a history of bleeding problems, you will be asked additional questions. If your blood does not clot normally, you can not donate since you may have excessive bleeding where the needle was placed. For the same reason, do not donate if you are taking any "blood thinner" such as:
If you are on aspirin, it is OK to donate whole blood. However, you must be off of aspirin for at least 2 full days in order to donate platelets by apheresis. For example, if you take aspirin products on Monday, the soonest you can donate platelets is Thursday. Donors with clotting disorder from Factor V who are not on anticoagulants are eligible to donate; however, all others must be evaluated by the health historian at the collection center. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Blood Pressure (High or Low)","description": "High Blood Pressure - Acceptable as long as your blood pressure is below 180 systolic (first number) and below 100 diastolic (second number) at the time of donation. Medications for high blood pressure do not disqualify you from donating. Low Blood Pressure - Acceptable as long as you feel well when you come to donate, and your blood pressure is at least 90/50 (systolic/diastolic). Learn more about Blood Pressure ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Pulse (High or Low)","description": "Acceptable as long as your pulse is no more than 100 and no less than 50. A pulse that is regular and less than 50 will require evaluation by the regional American Red Cross physician. When you come to donate blood at the American Red Cross, we measure your blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and hemoglobin because the results provide information about your current health at the time of your donation. The Red Cross does not diagnose medical conditions or offer treatment. Physical exam results vary throughout the day. Stress, nutrition, illness, hydration, weight, activity, environment and even consumption of certain ingredients (for example, salt or caffeine) can affect the results of the physical exam. If your result does not meet the minimum/maximum requirement at the time of your attempted donation you will not be permitted to donate. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Cancer","description": "Eligibility depends on the type of cancer and treatment history. If you had leukemia or lymphoma, including Hodgkin’s Disease and other cancers of the blood, you are not eligible to donate. Other types of cancer are acceptable if the cancer has been treated successfully and it has been more than 12 months since treatment was completed and there has been no cancer recurrence in this time. Lower risk in-situ cancers including squamous or basal cell cancers of the skin that have been completely removed and healed do not require a 12-month waiting period. Unable to Give Blood? Most chronic illnesses are acceptable as long as you feel well, the condition is under control, and you meet all other eligibility requirements. Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) If you ever received a dura mater (brain covering) transplant you are not eligible to donate. If you received an injection of cadaveric pituitary human growth hormone (hGH) you cannot donate. Human cadaveric pituitary-derived hGH was available in the U.S. from 1958 to 1985. Growth hormone received after 1985 is acceptable. If you have been diagnosed with vCJD, CJD or any other TSE or have a blood relative diagnosed with genetic CJD (e.g., fCJD, GSS, or FFI) you cannot donate. See Eligibility Reference Material Unable to Give Blood? Diabetics who are well controlled on insulin or oral medications are eligible to donate. In general, acceptable as long as you have been medically evaluated and treated, have no current (within the last 6 months) heart related symptoms such as chest pain and have no limitations or restrictions on your normal daily activities. Wait at least 6 months following an episode of angina. Wait at least 6 months following a heart attack. Wait at least 6 months after bypass surgery or angioplasty. Wait at least 6 months after a change in your heart condition that resulted in a change to your medications If you have a pacemaker, you can donate as long as your pulse is between 50 and 100 beats per minute and you meet the other heart disease criteria. Discuss your particular situation with your personal healthcare provider and the health historian at the time of donation. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Heart Murmur, Heart Valve Disorder","description": "Acceptable if you have a heart murmur as long as you have been medically evaluated and treated and have not had symptoms in the last 6 months and have no restrictions on your normal daily activities. Acceptable if you meet all eligibility criteria and donation intervals. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, Blood Count","description": "In order to donate blood, a woman must have a hemoglobin level of at least 12.5 g/dL, and a man must have a hemoglobin level of at least 13.0 g/dL. For all donors, the hemoglobin level can be no greater than 20 g/dL. When you come to donate blood at the American Red Cross, we measure your blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and hemoglobin because the results provide information about your current health at the time of your donation. The Red Cross does not diagnose medical conditions or offer treatment. Physical exam results vary throughout the day. Stress, nutrition, illness, hydration, weight, activity, environment and even consumption of certain ingredients (for example, salt or caffeine) can affect the results of the physical exam. If your result does not meet the minimum/maximum requirement at the time of your attempted donation you will not be permitted to donate. Separate requirements for hemoglobin level apply for Power Red. Learn more about Hematocrit. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Hepatitis, Jaundice","description": "If you have signs or symptoms of hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) caused by a virus, or unexplained jaundice (yellow discoloration of the skin), you are not eligible to donate blood. If you ever tested positive for hepatitis B or hepatitis C, at any age, you are not eligible to donate, even if you were never sick or jaundiced from the infection. Unable to Give Blood? If you live with or have had sexual contact with a person who has hepatitis, you must wait 12 months after the last contact. Persons who have been detained or incarcerated in a facility (juvenile detention, lockup, jail, or prison) for 72 hours or more consecutively (3 days) are deferred for 12 months from the date of last occurrence. This includes work release programs and weekend incarceration. These persons are at higher risk for exposure to infectious diseases. Wait 3 months after receiving a blood transfusion (unless it was your own "autologous" blood), non-sterile needle stick or exposure to someone else's blood. Unable to Give Blood? Do not give blood if you have AIDS or have ever had a positive HIV test, or if you have done something that puts you at risk for becoming infected with HIV. You are at risk for getting infected if you:
Do not give blood if you have any of the following conditions that can be signs or symptoms of HIV/AIDS:
Unable to Give Blood? See "Blood Pressure (High)" If you have a fever or an active infection, wait until the infection has resolved completely before donating blood. Monkeypox infection or exposure, wait a minimum of 21 days, then contact the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center at 1-866-236-3276 to discuss your particular situation to determine if you can donate. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Malaria","description": "Malaria is transmitted by the bite of mosquitoes found in certain countries and can be transmitted to patients through blood transfusion. Blood donations are not tested for malaria because there is no sensitive blood test available for malaria. If you have traveled or lived in a malaria-risk country, a waiting period is required before you can donate blood.
If you have traveled outside of the United States and Canada, your travel destinations will be reviewed at the time of donation. Please, come prepared to discuss your travel details when you donate. You can download the travel form and bring it with you to help in the assessment of your travel. You can call 866-236-3276 to speak with an eligibility specialist about your travel. If, in the past 3 years, you have been outside the United States or Canada:
Acceptable if you have sickle cell trait. Those with sickle cell disease are not eligible to donate. Acceptable as long as the skin over the vein to be used to collect blood is not affected. If the skin disease has become infected, wait until the infection has cleared before donating. Taking antibiotics to control acne does not disqualify you from donating. If you have active tuberculosis or are being treated for active tuberculosis do not donate. Acceptable if you have a positive skin test or blood test, but no active tuberculosis and are NOT taking antibiotics. If you are receiving antibiotics for a positive TB skin test or blood test only or if you are being treated for a tuberculosis infection, wait until treatment is successfully completed before donating. Donors who have undergone acupuncture treatments are acceptable. Wait for 3 months after receiving a blood transfusion from another person. Acceptable after dental procedures as long as there is no infection present. Wait until finishing antibiotics for a dental infection. Wait for 3 days after having oral surgery. Women on hormone replacement therapy for menopausal symptoms and prevention of osteoporosis are eligible to donate. Wait 3 months after receiving any type of organ transplant from another person. If you ever received a dura mater (brain covering) transplant, you are not eligible to donate. This requirement is related to concerns about the brain disease, Creutzfeld-Jacob Disease (CJD). If you ever received a transplant of animal organs or of living animal tissue - you are not eligible to donate blood. Non-living animal tissues such as bone, tendon, or heart valves are acceptable. Unable to Give Blood? It is not necessarily surgery but the underlying condition that precipitated the surgery that requires evaluation before donation. Evaluation is on a case by case basis. Discuss your particular situation with the health historian at the time of donation. You must be at least 17 years old to donate to the general blood supply, or 16 years old with parental/guardian consent, if allowed by state law. Learn more. There is no upper age limit for blood donation as long as you are well with no restrictions or limitations to your activities. First-time male donors may be eligible to donate blood if they have not had sex with another man in more than 3 months. All additional blood donation eligibility criteria will apply. Donors who were previously deferred under the prior MSM policy will be evaluated for reinstatement. Individuals who have been deferred for MSM in the past can initiate donor reinstatement by contacting the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center at 1-866-236-3276. Individuals with questions about their donation eligibility can contact the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center at 1-866-236-3276. For the purposes of blood donation gender is self-identified and self-reported, which is relevant to the transgender community. More information about the FDA policy is available for LGBTQ+ donors. Unable to Give Blood? Wait 3 months after using IV drugs that were not prescribed by a physician. This requirement is related to concerns about hepatitis and HIV. Learn more about hepatitis and blood donation. Persons who are pregnant are not eligible to donate. Wait 6 weeks after giving birth. Wait 3 months after a tattoo if the tattoo was applied in a state that does not regulate tattoo facilities. Currently, the only states that DO NOT regulate tattoo facilities are: District of Columbia, Georgia, Idaho, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Utah and Wyoming. This requirement is related to concerns about hepatitis. Learn more about hepatitis and blood donation. Wait 3 months after treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea. Acceptable if it has been more than 3 months since you completed treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea. Chlamydia, venereal warts (human papilloma virus), or genital herpes are not a cause for deferral if you are feeling healthy and well and meet all other eligibility requirements. Unable to Give Blood? Do not give blood if you have AIDS or have ever had a positive HIV test, or if you have done something that puts you at risk for becoming infected with HIV. You are at risk for getting infected if you:
Do not give blood if you have any of the following conditions that can be signs or symptoms of HIV/AIDS:
Wait 3 months after the last dose of any oral medications taken to prevent HIV infection [also known as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) - Truvada (Tenofovir), Descovy (emtricitabine), Tivicay (dolutegravir) and Isentress (raltegravir) are oral medications given for exposure to HIV. Wait 2 years after the last injection or shot of medication taken to prevent HIV infection also known as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)- Apretude (cabotegravir ) are injections or shots given for exposure to HIV. Unable to Give Blood? See also "Sexually Transmitted Disease" Wait 3 months after treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea. Chlamydia, venereal warts (human papilloma virus), or genital herpes are not a cause for deferral if you are feeling healthy and well and meet all other eligibility requirements. ","category": {"name": "Sexually Transmitted Diseases","slug": "eligibility-stds"}},{"title": "Syphilis/Gonorrhea","description": "Wait 3 months after treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea. Acceptable as long as the instruments used were single-use equipment and disposable (which means both the gun and the earring cassette were disposable). Wait 3 months if a piercing was performed using a reusable gun or any reusable instrument. Wait 3 months if there is any question whether or not the instruments used were single-use equipment. This requirement is related to concerns about hepatitis. Learn more about hepatitis and blood donation. ","category": {"name": "Lifestyle and Life Events","slug": "eligibility-lifestyle"}},{"title": "Measles Exposure","description": "Acceptable if you are healthy and well and have been vaccinated for measles more than 4 weeks ago or were born before 1956. If you have not been vaccinated or it has been less than 4 weeks since being vaccinated, wait 4 weeks from the date of the vaccination or exposure before donating. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "I am interested in hosting a blood drive, who do I contact?","description": "Please complete this online form and a Red Cross representative will contact you. Any organization can participate in the blood program. Based on experience, the organization should have enough members to hold a blood drive, but your Red Cross representative will work with you determine how you can partner with the Red Cross if you have fewer people. Learn more about requirements for hosting. Blood drives can be held either on a Red Cross blood donation bus or in the facility of the hosting organization. Most sponsors choose to host the drive in their facility. However, our Red Cross representative will work with you to determine the best set up for your blood drive. Please see recruitment strategies and tips. All donors are required to be truly “volunteer” donors by the FDA, and not be reimbursed for their donation, so any gift or incentive offered must be offered to all participants of a blood drive – donors and volunteers alike. This helps ensure all people are honest about their health history. All incentives offered must be reviewed and approved by your Red Cross representative. Red Cross employees implemented added precautions to ensure blood drives and donation centers are safe for donors and staff. Learn about the COVID-19 safety precautions at Red Cross blood drives. If you work for an American Red Cross Immunohematology Reference Lab (IRL) or Creative Testing Solutions (CTS) you are an “internal” customer. Any other customer is considered “external.” Our easy to use website contains versions of the Directions for Use associated with each in date lot number of product. This saves everyone money by not printing extra paper copies. Some antibody specificities require adsorption with red blood cells to remove unwanted antibodies (eg. Anti-A, Anti-B, Anti-D). During this process some hemolysis occurs, which colors the serum. Depending on the number of adsorptions required, the color may be darker or lighter. The color does not affect the antigen-antibody reaction. Human plasma is composed of many proteins. They are sometimes more visible from one reagent to another. American Red Cross IRLs or CTS order their products directly from DMD via Contact DMD . External customers must order products via our distributor, Hemo Bioscience, Inc. Navigate to the specific page associated with the product. Select the lot number (printed on the product vial); the associated Directions for Use will load as a .pdf file. If this does not work, please contact us at Contact DMD Hemo Bioscience, Inc. offers a more comprehensive product line to make your ordering easier. Directions for Use do not change often; the version is updated when changes are made. The version is located following the text, usually at the bottom right.
No, they are produced from pools of donor antibody plasma, making them polyclonal reagents. Storage requirements are listed on the label and in the Directions for Use. Directions for Use do not change often; the version is updated when changes are made. The version is located following the text, usually at the bottom right.
Donating blood is a simple thing to do, but can make a big difference in the lives of others. The donation process from the time you arrive until the time you leave takes about an hour. The donation itself is only about 8-10 minutes on average. The steps in the process are: Registration
Health History and Mini Physical
Donation
Refreshments
Your gift of blood may help up to three people. Donated red blood cells do not last forever. They have a shelf-life of up to 42 days. A healthy donor may donate every 56 days. ","category": {"name": "Blood Donation Process","slug": "donating-blood-blood-donation-process"}},{"title": "What should I do after donating blood?","description": "After you give blood: Take the following precautions:
Only for a moment. Pinch the fleshy, soft underside of your arm. That pinch is similar to what you will feel when the needle is inserted. The entire process takes about one hour and 15 minutes; the actual donation of a pint of whole blood unit takes eight to 10 minutes. However, the time varies slightly with each person depending on several factors including the donor’s health history and attendance at the blood drive. The plasma from your donation is replaced within about 24 hours. Red cells need about four to six weeks for complete replacement. That’s why at least eight weeks are required between whole blood donations. The highest priorities of the Red Cross are the safety of the blood supply and our blood donors. Some individuals may be at risk of transferring communicable disease through blood donation due to exposure via travel or other activities or may encounter problems with blood donation due to their health. We ask these questions to ensure that it is safe for patients to receive your blood and to ensure that it is safe for you to donate blood that day. You must wait at least eight weeks (56 days) between donations of whole blood and 16 weeks (112 days) between Power Red donations. Whole blood donors can donate up to 6 times a year. Platelet apheresis donors may give every 7 days up to 24 times per year. Regulations are different for those giving blood for themselves (autologous donors). In most states, donors must be age 17 or older. Some states allow donation by 16-year-olds with a signed parental consent form. Donors must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Additional eligibility criteria apply. At this time, we are allowing additional guests or children to accompany donors to their donation appointment. Guests are expected to follow any safety protocols in place at the time of donation. The safety of our donors, volunteers, and employees is of the utmost importance. Children who do not require supervision and are not disruptive are welcome to sit in the waiting or refreshment area. If they require supervision another adult must be present. ","category": {"name": "Blood Donation Process","slug": "donating-blood-blood-donation-process"}},{"title": "What is apheresis?","description": "Apheresis is the process by which platelets and other specific blood components (red cells or plasma) are collected from a donor. The word “apheresis” is derived from the Greek word aphaeresis meaning “to take away.” This process is accomplished by using a machine called a cell separator. Blood is drawn from the donor and the platelets, or another blood component, are collected by the cell separator and the remaining components of the blood are returned to the donor during the donation. Each apheresis donation procedure takes about one-and-one-half to two hours. Donors can watch movies or relax during the donation. Platelets are tiny, colorless, disc-shaped particles circulating in the blood, and they are essential for normal blood clotting. Platelets are critically important to the survival of many patients with clotting problems (aplastic anemia, leukemia) or cancer, and patients who will undergo organ transplants or major surgeries like heart bypass grafts. Platelets can only be stored for five days after being collected. Maintaining an adequate supply of this lifesaving, perishable product is an ongoing challenge. Every 7 days up to 24 apheresis donations can be made in a year. Some apheresis donations can generate two or three adult-sized platelet transfusion doses from one donation! Healthy individuals are needed to help patients counting on lifesaving blood. The need for blood is constant, and volunteer donors are the only source of blood for those in need of transfusions. Blood donation is an "essential service" and "critical infrastructure" function as determined by the United States Department of Homeland Security and many other federal, state and local authorities. Like a hospital, grocery store, or pharmacy, a blood drive is essential to ensuring the health of the community, and the Red Cross will continue to hold blood drives during this challenging time to help meet patient needs. The Department of Health and Human Services, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Food and Drug Administration have issued statements encouraging blood donation for those who are well. It’s important to note that blood drives have the high standards of safety and infection control. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What safety precautions are in place at Red Cross blood drives to protect staff and donors? ","description": "Safety is our top priority. The Red Cross only collects blood from individuals who are healthy and feeling well at the time of donation. To help keep everyone attending Red Cross blood drives and visiting blood donation centers safe as COVID-19 cases are surging again, the Red Cross requires all blood donors, staff and others to wear a face mask regardless of their vaccination status. At each blood drive and donation center, Red Cross employees have always followed thorough safety protocols to help prevent the spread of any type of infection, including: • Wearing gloves and changing gloves often • Routinely disinfecting donor-touched areas • Using sterile collection sets for every donation, and • Preparing the arm for donation with an aseptic scrub. Additionally, we will continue to utilize additional precautions put into place earlier during the pandemic– to ensure the safety of our employees, volunteers and donors, including: • Hand sanitizer available before entering the drive, as well as throughout the donation process. • All surfaces and equipment receive enhanced disinfection. • Donation appointment emphasis to help manage the flow of donors at drives. These mitigation measures will help ensure staff and donor safety in reducing contact with those who may potentially have COVID-19, or any, respiratory infection. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can donors wear homemade masks, such as cloth masks, bandanas, etc.?","description": "Yes, as long as the cloth or homemade mask covers both their nose and mouth in alignment with updated CDC guidelines. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What if a donor doesn’t want to wear a mask? For example, what if they have a medical condition that makes it difficult or impossible to wear a mask?","description": "To ensure the safety of our staff and the blood donor community, if a donor does not want to wear a face mask, we ask they postpone their donation for a later date when masks may no longer be required. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "I tried to make an appointment to donate blood, but there are no blood drives near me?","description": "Like many organizations, the Red Cross continues to face pandemic challenges that have forced some blood donor appointments and drives to be canceled. Please know, the Red Cross is working tirelessly to overcome these obstacles to meet the needs of patients as quickly as possible. We apologize for any inconvenience. Please do not feel discouraged if there is not an immediate appointment available — patients still need you. During this challenging time, we hope you will still be able to find a location and time to give for patients who are counting on us. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can donors wear a mask at a blood drive?","description": "Yes. As the nation actively responds and navigates to this evolving pandemic, we are all having to make difficult decisions to ensure our health and safety. The Red Cross follows the highest standards of safety and infection control. For the safety of our donors and staff, the Red Cross requires all those at blood drives and blood donation centers to wear a face mask regardless of their vaccination status. Valve face masks are not permitted. Face shields can be worn in addition to face masks but not as a substitute. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can staff or donors wear face masks with valves?","description": "In alignment with the CDC, the Red Cross does not permit valve face masks at our blood drives or donation centers for employees, volunteers or donors. Valve face masks protect the individual wearing the mask, but do not protect those who come into contact with them. The Red Cross is committed to ensuring the safest environment possible for all those who engage in our lifesaving mission. If a donor or staff would like to wear a valve mask, they will need to place an additional mask, such as a surgical mask or cloth mask, over the valve mask while at the blood drive. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Am I eligible to donate if I have been quarantined for COVID-19?","description": "If you are quarantined for any reason, you are not eligible to donate during the quarantine time period. If you are past the quarantine time and have been symptom-free for 10 days, you will be eligible to donate blood. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What if I become sick after donating?","description": "Donors should call our Donor Support Center at 1-866-236-3276 if they become sick with any illness in the days after their donation. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can I donate after receiving the COVID-19 vaccination?","description": "You may still donate blood, platelets and plasma after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. Knowing the name of the manufacturer of the vaccine is important in determining your blood donation eligibility. Learn more about COVID-19 vaccines and blood donation. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Are Red Cross staff members required to wear face masks?","description": "Beginning April 25, the Red Cross no longer requires that its vaccinated employees and volunteers wear masks. Of course, individuals may choose to continue to wear a mask for any reason and we will continue to make masks available for those in attendance at blood drives and donation centers. If state or local laws differ from our policy, the Red Cross will remain in compliance with these laws. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What safety precautions are in place at Red Cross blood drives to protect staff and donors?","description": "Safety is our top priority. The Red Cross only collects blood from individuals who are healthy and feeling well at the time of donation. At each blood drive and donation center, Red Cross employees have always followed thorough safety protocols to help prevent the spread of any type of infection, including: • Wearing gloves and changing gloves often • Routinely disinfecting donor-touched areas • Using sterile collection sets for every donation, and • Preparing the arm for donation with an aseptic scrub. Additionally, we will continue to utilize additional precautions put into place earlier during the pandemic to ensure the safety of our employees, volunteers and donors, including: • Hand sanitizer available at all drives • Donation appointment emphasis to help manage the flow of donors at drives. • Social distancing where possible. These mitigation measures will help ensure staff and donor safety in reducing contact with those who may potentially have COVID-19 or any respiratory infection. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can donors wear a mask at a blood drive or blood donation center?","description": "Yes, individuals may choose to continue to wear a mask for any reason, and we will continue to make masks available for those in attendance at blood drives and donation centers. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Is the Red Cross testing for COVID-19 antibodies?","description": "The American Red Cross is no longer testing all donations for COVID-19 antibodies. The Red Cross resumed testing all donations for COVID-19 antibodies to help build up its inventory of convalescent plasma to help critically ill patients battling the virus amid the delta and omicron surges this past winter. Since then, the Red Cross has been able to build a sufficient inventory of convalescent plasma products to meet the needs of patients now and in the future. As such, only donations collected through June 3, 2022, will be tested for COVID-19 antibodies. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What if I have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 10 days?","description": "You must be fully recovered from COVID-19 and symptom-free for a least 10 days before donating blood. If you have had a positive diagnostic test in the past 10 days for COVID-19 but didn’t have symptoms, you will need to wait 10 days after the COVID-19 test. If you have a pending COVID-19 diagnostic test for COVID-19, you are not able to donate during this time. Once you have tested negative or been symptom-free for 10 days you will be eligible to donate blood. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What if a blood donor has a special health condition and would like their phlebotomist to wear a mask?","description": "Red Cross employees and volunteers will graciously accommodate mask requests from donors where close interaction occurs. There are many reasons individuals may need additional safety protocols during the pandemic, and as a humanitarian organization, we will continue to be understanding and caring to all. The Red Cross will also continue to socially distance wherever possible at our blood drives, donation centers and facilities. Safety remains our top priority. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "When will donors be notified of their test results? And how can donors access test results? ","description": "Red Cross donors can expect to receive the results of their sickle cell trait screening within one to two weeks through our Red Cross Blood Donor App or on our donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why does the Red Cross ask donors to select their race at the time of donation?","description": "The Red Cross asks blood and platelet donors to select their race and ethnicity at the time of donation to help meet the unique transfusion needs of a diverse patient population. By identifying a donor’s race and ethnicity, it helps the Red Cross better and more efficiently locate rare blood types to best meet the needs of all patients of all backgrounds. Certain blood characteristics are inherited making them more likely to be found within certain donor groups. These matched blood products provide a more compatible unit for transfusion to patients in need. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What does a “inconsistent” result mean? ","description": "An inconsistent result means that the Red Cross is not able to confirm a positive or negative screening result. In some cases, this is because the Red Cross immunohematology-reference laboratory may have previously tested their donation for sickle cell trait at the request of a hospital to fulfill a specific product need. In these cases, the donor may have received a previous result of negative or positive. While the Red Cross will work to resolve many inconsistent results, portion will remain inconsistent. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What does it mean to carry the sickle cell trait? ","description": "It is estimated that about 1 in 13 Black or African American babies in the U.S. is born with sickle cell trait, which means they have inherited the sickle cell gene from one of their parents. Carrying the sickle cell trait does not mean that an individual has sickle cell disease. Individuals who only carry the sickle cell trait are eligible to donate blood. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How does this screening differ from a sickle cell trait diagnostic test? ","description": "Sickle cell trait screening is not a diagnostic test. This screening is performed on a blood sample given during the standard donation process to look for the presence of an abnormal type of hemoglobin, called hemoglobin S or sickled hemoglobin, a key indicator of sickle cell trait. This means it is likely the individual inherited one sickle cell gene and one normal gene from their parents. If an individual receives a positive result, they should consult their medical provider to discuss their test results and pursue additional confirmatory diagnostic testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why is the Red Cross only screening donations from African American donors for sickle cell trait?","description": "The Red Cross is testing blood donations from individuals of African descent because the sickle cell disease trait is most commonly carried within this demographic. In fact, 8-10% of African Americans have sickle cell trait. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How is the Red Cross able to fund sickle cell screening if it is not charging donors? ","description": "The Red Cross is working to rally the support of generous financial donors to help fund this program. We are also looking into other possible funding sources. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why is it beneficial for Black individuals to know if they have the sickle cell trait? ","description": "Many individuals with sickle cell trait are unaware of their status. Sickle cell trait is inherited and means that an individual received one sickle cell gene and one normal gene from their parents. While, carrying the trait does not mean that an individual has sickle cell disease, health experts recommend that individuals with sickle cell trait be aware of their status and consult their medical provider on what it means for them. In general, many individuals who carry the sickle cell trait have no medical problems related to sickle cell trait. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How accurate are the sickle cell test screenings the Red Cross is using? ","description": "The sickle cell trait screenings the Red Cross is using are highly accurate and effective at detecting the presence of an abnormal type of hemoglobin a key indicator of sickle cell trait. However, these screening are not perfect. As with all tests and screening, false results, or a screening result that incorrectly states the presence of abnormal hemoglobin, can occur. This is why those who receive a positive result are encouraged to consult their medical provider for confirmatory testing and discuss what their results mean for them. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How long will the Red Cross be screening blood donations for the sickle cell trait? ","description": "The Red Cross plans to screen blood, platelet and plasma donations from self-identified African American blood donors through June 30, 2023. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Will there be a donor charge for this screening? ","description": "No. Like other blood donation screenings, sickle cell trait screening is part of the blood donation testing process which occurs at no charge to the donor. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why is the Red Cross expanding it’s testing to include sickle cell trait screening on all donations from self-identified African American donors.","description": "We understand that for many donors, having greater insight into their health during this pandemic is important to them—as such the Red Cross has expanded its testing to include sickle cell trait screening on all donations from self-identified African American donors. In addition, this screening helps the Red Cross identify compatible blood types to help sickle cell patients more quickly. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What if someone is not eligible to give blood, can they still receive a sickle cell trait screening? ","description": "Donors will need to have a successful donation to receive sickle cell trait screening results. Per standard donation procedure, only successful donations are sent to our laboratory for screening. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What does it mean to have a negative sickle cell screening result? ","description": "A negative result indicates that screening did not detect sickle hemoglobin or Hemoglobin S—a key indicator of sickle cell trait. This means that the individual is likely not a sickle cell trait carrier. It is important to note, that the Red Cross is not screening for other abnormal hemoglobin cells that can also cause sickling-- such as Hemoglobin C. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Will sickle cell trait screening change the donation process for presenting donors? ","description": "No. The Red Cross blood donation process at our blood drives and donation centers will not change. Blood, platelet and plasma donations will be screened using samples obtained at the time of donation and sent to a testing laboratory where the samples will also undergo routine screening and infectious disease testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Can individuals that only carry the sickle cell trait donate blood?","description": "Individuals who only carry the sickle cell trait are eligible to donate blood. These blood products will not be used to help sickle cell patients but can help other patients in need of lifesaving blood. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Is this screening a new testing initiative for the Red Cross? ","description": "No. Red Cross immunohematology-reference laboratories (IRL) have historically tested select donations for sickle cell trait at the request of a hospital partner actively looking to fulfill a specific blood product need. This spring we are expanding our screening to include all blood, platelet and plasma donations from self-identified African American donors to allow us to identify compatible blood donations even faster to help patients in need of a blood transfusion. Donations from Black individuals who do not carry the sickle cell trait are often the most compatible blood products for sickle cell patients. However, 51 percent of African Americans have type O (positive or negative) blood, in comparison to approximately 45 percent of white individuals. Type O blood is most often in critical supply as it is most often needed by hospitals. Black donors play a vital role in helping meet the needs of all patients including—individuals who experience complicated childbirths, people fighting cancer, and accident victims being raced to emergency rooms. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Do donors need to have a successful donation to receive a sickle cell trait screening result? ","description": "Yes. Donors will need to have a successful donation to receive sickle cell trait screening results. Per standard donation procedure, only successful donations are sent to our laboratory for testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What if I don’t have the app or have internet access? How can I get my test results? ","description": "The Red Cross encourages donors to access their screening results through our Red Cross Blood Donor App or on our donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org. This will provide the most expedient access to test results. If a donor has questions or issues with the Blood Donor App or portal functionality, please contact 855-210-1278. If a donor does not have internet service and therefore cannot use the two recommended channels, they may call the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center 14 days after donation at 1-866-236-3276 to obtain their results. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What test is the Red Cross using to screen donations for the sickle cell trait? ","description": "The Red Cross is using the Pacific Hemostasis® SickleScreen® Sickling Hemoglobin Screening Kit and the Streck Sickledex® Solubility Testing Kit. This test is used to detect abnormal sickling hemoglobin cells or Hemoglobin S. We recognize there are other abnormal hemoglobin cells that can cause sickling however this test rarely detects of presence of these other hemoglobin cells. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why wasn’t my donation screened for sickle cell trait? ","description": "While rare, some donations may not be able to be tested due to processing issues. Donors will need to have a successful donation to receive sickle cell trait screening results. Per standard procedures, only successful donations are sent to our laboratory for testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What does it mean to have a positive sickle cell screening result? ","description": "A positive result indicates that the screening detected the presence of an abnormal type of hemoglobin called hemoglobin S or sickle hemoglobin, a key indicator of sickle cell trait. This means it is likely the individual inherited one sickle cell gene and one normal gene from their parents. If an individual receives a positive result, they should consult their medical provider to discuss their test results and pursue additional confirmatory testing. In addition to providing individuals with their results via the Blood Donor App and donor portal on RedCrossBlood.org, those who have positive results will also receive a letter in the mail. It’s important to note, that carrying the sickle cell trait does not mean that an individual has sickle cell disease. In general, many individuals who carry the sickle cell trait have no medical problems related to sickle cell trait. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Is this sickle cell trait screenings the Red Cross is using FDA approved? ","description": "The Red Cross is using the Pacific Hemostasis® SickleScreen® Sickling Hemoglobin Screening Kit and the Streck Sickledex® Solubility Testing Kit to screen donations from self-identified African Americans for abnormal hemoglobin—a key indicator of sickle cell trait. Both screenings are authorized for use by the FDA and are highly accurate. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Will the Red Cross be providing sickle cell trait screening results to anyone beside the donor? ","description": "No. The Red Cross will not release your screening result or any other test result without your written permission unless required by law. The Red Cross is only required to report positive sickle cell trait results in writing to donor. We do encourage those individuals who receive a positive sickle cell trait result to consult their medical provider to discuss their test results and pursue additional confirmatory testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What if a donor does not want to have their donation screened for sickle cell trait? ","description": "If an individual does not want their donation to be screened for sickle cell trait, they should select the “I prefer not to answer or other” response regarding their race and ethnicity. Only donations from self-identified African American donors will be screened for sickle cell trait. Self-identifying your race and ethnicity helps the Red Cross better and more efficiently locate rare blood types to best meet the needs of all patients of all backgrounds. Certain blood characteristics are inherited making them more likely to be found within certain donor groups. These matched blood products provide a more compatible unit for transfusion to patients in need Since May 2006, all babies receive a newborn screening test for sickle cell anemia to identify a potential medical emergency, appropriately treat the disease early and reduce infant mortality. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Will every donation be screened every time? ","description": "No, because a donor’s sickle cell trait status does not change over time, donations will only be tested once. This information, along with other blood type attributes becomes part of an individual’s confidential donor record and is used to help the Red Cross identify compatible units for patients in crisis as quickly as possible. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": " Why isn’t the Red Cross testing self-identified mixed-race individuals for sickle cell trait?","description": "While it’s true that people of all races and ethnicities can carry the sickle cell trait, its most commonly Aspirin, no waiting period for donating whole blood. However, you must wait 2 full days after taking aspirin or any medication containing aspirin before donating platelets by apheresis. For example, if you take aspirin products on Monday, the soonest you can donate platelets is Thursday. ","category": {"name": "Medications and Vaccinations","slug": "eligibility-medications"}},{"title": "Antibiotics","description": "A donor with an acute infection can not donate. The reason for antibiotic use must be evaluated to determine if the donor has a bacterial infection that could be transmissible by blood. Acceptable after finishing oral antibiotics for an infection (bacterial or viral). Can have taken last pill on the date of donation. Antibiotic by injection for an infection acceptable 10 days after last injection. Acceptable if you are taking antibiotics to prevent an infection for the following reasons: acne, chronic prostatitis, peptic ulcer disease, periodontal disease, pre-dental work, rosacea, ulcerative colitis, after a splenectomy, or valvular heart disease. If you have a temperature above 99.5 F, you can not donate. ","category": {"name": "Medications and Vaccinations","slug": "eligibility-medications"}},{"title": "Birth Control","description": "Individuals on oral contraceptives or using other forms of birth control are eligible to donate.
Donors with diabetes who take any kind of insulin are eligible to donate as long their diabetes is well controlled. ","category": {"name": "Medications and Vaccinations","slug": "eligibility-medications"}},{"title": "Medications","description": "In almost all cases, medications will not disqualify you as a blood donor. Your eligibility will be based on the reason that the medication was prescribed. As long as the condition is under control and you are healthy, blood donation is usually permitted. Over-the-counter oral homeopathic medications, herbal remedies, and nutritional supplements are acceptable. There are a handful of drugs that are of special significance in blood donation. Persons on these drugs have waiting periods following their last dose before they can donate blood:
Unable to Give Blood?
You must weigh at least 110 lbs to be eligible for blood donation for your own safety. Students who donate at high school drives and donors 18 years of age or younger must also meet additional height and weight requirements for whole blood donation (applies to girls shorter than 5'5" and boys shorter than 5'). Unable to Give Blood? Acceptable as long as you feel well, have no fever, and have no problems breathing through your mouth.
You can be exposed to malaria through travel and travel in some areas can sometimes defer donors. If you have traveled outside of the United States and Canada, your travel destinations will be reviewed at the time of donation. Come prepared to your donation process with your travel details when you donate. You can download the travel form and bring it with you to help in the assessment of your travel. You can call 866-236-3276 to speak with an eligibility specialist about your travel. If, in the past 3 years, you have been outside the United States or Canada:
Malaria is transmitted by the bite of mosquitoes found in certain countries and can be transmitted to patients through blood transfusion. Blood donations are not tested for malaria because there is no sensitive blood test available for malaria. If you have traveled or lived in a malaria-risk country, a waiting period is required before you can donate blood
Unable to Give Blood? If you have been diagnosed with Zika virus infection, wait more than 120 days after your symptoms resolve to donate. Unable to Give Blood? You are not eligible to donate if you have ever had Ebola virus infection or disease. Unable to Give Blood? Acceptable as long as you feel well, have no fever, and have no problems breathing through your mouth. Acceptable as long as you do not have any limitations on daily activities and are not having difficulty breathing at the time of donation and you otherwise feel well. Medications for asthma do not disqualify you from donating. If you have a history of bleeding problems, you will be asked additional questions. If your blood does not clot normally, you can not donate since you may have excessive bleeding where the needle was placed. For the same reason, do not donate if you are taking any "blood thinner" such as:
If you are on aspirin, it is OK to donate whole blood. However, you must be off of aspirin for at least 2 full days in order to donate platelets by apheresis. For example, if you take aspirin products on Monday, the soonest you can donate platelets is Thursday. Donors with clotting disorder from Factor V who are not on anticoagulants are eligible to donate; however, all others must be evaluated by the health historian at the collection center. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Blood Pressure (High or Low)","description": "High Blood Pressure - Acceptable as long as your blood pressure is below 180 systolic (first number) and below 100 diastolic (second number) at the time of donation. Medications for high blood pressure do not disqualify you from donating. Low Blood Pressure - Acceptable as long as you feel well when you come to donate, and your blood pressure is at least 90/50 (systolic/diastolic). Learn more about Blood Pressure ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Pulse (High or Low)","description": "Acceptable as long as your pulse is no more than 100 and no less than 50. A pulse that is regular and less than 50 will require evaluation by the regional American Red Cross physician. When you come to donate blood at the American Red Cross, we measure your blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and hemoglobin because the results provide information about your current health at the time of your donation. The Red Cross does not diagnose medical conditions or offer treatment. Physical exam results vary throughout the day. Stress, nutrition, illness, hydration, weight, activity, environment and even consumption of certain ingredients (for example, salt or caffeine) can affect the results of the physical exam. If your result does not meet the minimum/maximum requirement at the time of your attempted donation you will not be permitted to donate. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Cancer","description": "Eligibility depends on the type of cancer and treatment history. If you had leukemia or lymphoma, including Hodgkin’s Disease and other cancers of the blood, you are not eligible to donate. Other types of cancer are acceptable if the cancer has been treated successfully and it has been more than 12 months since treatment was completed and there has been no cancer recurrence in this time. Lower risk in-situ cancers including squamous or basal cell cancers of the skin that have been completely removed and healed do not require a 12-month waiting period. Unable to Give Blood? Most chronic illnesses are acceptable as long as you feel well, the condition is under control, and you meet all other eligibility requirements. Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) If you ever received a dura mater (brain covering) transplant you are not eligible to donate. If you received an injection of cadaveric pituitary human growth hormone (hGH) you cannot donate. Human cadaveric pituitary-derived hGH was available in the U.S. from 1958 to 1985. Growth hormone received after 1985 is acceptable. If you have been diagnosed with vCJD, CJD or any other TSE or have a blood relative diagnosed with genetic CJD (e.g., fCJD, GSS, or FFI) you cannot donate. See Eligibility Reference Material Unable to Give Blood? Diabetics who are well controlled on insulin or oral medications are eligible to donate. In general, acceptable as long as you have been medically evaluated and treated, have no current (within the last 6 months) heart related symptoms such as chest pain and have no limitations or restrictions on your normal daily activities. Wait at least 6 months following an episode of angina. Wait at least 6 months following a heart attack. Wait at least 6 months after bypass surgery or angioplasty. Wait at least 6 months after a change in your heart condition that resulted in a change to your medications If you have a pacemaker, you can donate as long as your pulse is between 50 and 100 beats per minute and you meet the other heart disease criteria. Discuss your particular situation with your personal healthcare provider and the health historian at the time of donation. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Heart Murmur, Heart Valve Disorder","description": "Acceptable if you have a heart murmur as long as you have been medically evaluated and treated and have not had symptoms in the last 6 months and have no restrictions on your normal daily activities. Acceptable if you meet all eligibility criteria and donation intervals. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, Blood Count","description": "In order to donate blood, a woman must have a hemoglobin level of at least 12.5 g/dL, and a man must have a hemoglobin level of at least 13.0 g/dL. For all donors, the hemoglobin level can be no greater than 20 g/dL. When you come to donate blood at the American Red Cross, we measure your blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and hemoglobin because the results provide information about your current health at the time of your donation. The Red Cross does not diagnose medical conditions or offer treatment. Physical exam results vary throughout the day. Stress, nutrition, illness, hydration, weight, activity, environment and even consumption of certain ingredients (for example, salt or caffeine) can affect the results of the physical exam. If your result does not meet the minimum/maximum requirement at the time of your attempted donation you will not be permitted to donate. Separate requirements for hemoglobin level apply for Power Red. Learn more about Hematocrit. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Hepatitis, Jaundice","description": "If you have signs or symptoms of hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) caused by a virus, or unexplained jaundice (yellow discoloration of the skin), you are not eligible to donate blood. If you ever tested positive for hepatitis B or hepatitis C, at any age, you are not eligible to donate, even if you were never sick or jaundiced from the infection. Unable to Give Blood? If you live with or have had sexual contact with a person who has hepatitis, you must wait 12 months after the last contact. Persons who have been detained or incarcerated in a facility (juvenile detention, lockup, jail, or prison) for 72 hours or more consecutively (3 days) are deferred for 12 months from the date of last occurrence. This includes work release programs and weekend incarceration. These persons are at higher risk for exposure to infectious diseases. Wait 3 months after receiving a blood transfusion (unless it was your own "autologous" blood), non-sterile needle stick or exposure to someone else's blood. Unable to Give Blood? Do not give blood if you have AIDS or have ever had a positive HIV test, or if you have done something that puts you at risk for becoming infected with HIV. You are at risk for getting infected if you:
Do not give blood if you have any of the following conditions that can be signs or symptoms of HIV/AIDS:
Unable to Give Blood? See "Blood Pressure (High)" If you have a fever or an active infection, wait until the infection has resolved completely before donating blood. Monkeypox infection or exposure, wait a minimum of 21 days, then contact the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center at 1-866-236-3276 to discuss your particular situation to determine if you can donate. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Malaria","description": "Malaria is transmitted by the bite of mosquitoes found in certain countries and can be transmitted to patients through blood transfusion. Blood donations are not tested for malaria because there is no sensitive blood test available for malaria. If you have traveled or lived in a malaria-risk country, a waiting period is required before you can donate blood.
If you have traveled outside of the United States and Canada, your travel destinations will be reviewed at the time of donation. Please, come prepared to discuss your travel details when you donate. You can download the travel form and bring it with you to help in the assessment of your travel. You can call 866-236-3276 to speak with an eligibility specialist about your travel. If, in the past 3 years, you have been outside the United States or Canada:
Acceptable if you have sickle cell trait. Those with sickle cell disease are not eligible to donate. Acceptable as long as the skin over the vein to be used to collect blood is not affected. If the skin disease has become infected, wait until the infection has cleared before donating. Taking antibiotics to control acne does not disqualify you from donating. If you have active tuberculosis or are being treated for active tuberculosis do not donate. Acceptable if you have a positive skin test or blood test, but no active tuberculosis and are NOT taking antibiotics. If you are receiving antibiotics for a positive TB skin test or blood test only or if you are being treated for a tuberculosis infection, wait until treatment is successfully completed before donating. Donors who have undergone acupuncture treatments are acceptable. Wait for 3 months after receiving a blood transfusion from another person. Acceptable after dental procedures as long as there is no infection present. Wait until finishing antibiotics for a dental infection. Wait for 3 days after having oral surgery. Women on hormone replacement therapy for menopausal symptoms and prevention of osteoporosis are eligible to donate. Wait 3 months after receiving any type of organ transplant from another person. If you ever received a dura mater (brain covering) transplant, you are not eligible to donate. This requirement is related to concerns about the brain disease, Creutzfeld-Jacob Disease (CJD). If you ever received a transplant of animal organs or of living animal tissue - you are not eligible to donate blood. Non-living animal tissues such as bone, tendon, or heart valves are acceptable. Unable to Give Blood? It is not necessarily surgery but the underlying condition that precipitated the surgery that requires evaluation before donation. Evaluation is on a case by case basis. Discuss your particular situation with the health historian at the time of donation. You must be at least 17 years old to donate to the general blood supply, or 16 years old with parental/guardian consent, if allowed by state law. Learn more. There is no upper age limit for blood donation as long as you are well with no restrictions or limitations to your activities. First-time male donors may be eligible to donate blood if they have not had sex with another man in more than 3 months. All additional blood donation eligibility criteria will apply. Donors who were previously deferred under the prior MSM policy will be evaluated for reinstatement. Individuals who have been deferred for MSM in the past can initiate donor reinstatement by contacting the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center at 1-866-236-3276. Individuals with questions about their donation eligibility can contact the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center at 1-866-236-3276. For the purposes of blood donation gender is self-identified and self-reported, which is relevant to the transgender community. More information about the FDA policy is available for LGBTQ+ donors. Unable to Give Blood? Wait 3 months after using IV drugs that were not prescribed by a physician. This requirement is related to concerns about hepatitis and HIV. Learn more about hepatitis and blood donation. Persons who are pregnant are not eligible to donate. Wait 6 weeks after giving birth. Wait 3 months after a tattoo if the tattoo was applied in a state that does not regulate tattoo facilities. Currently, the only states that DO NOT regulate tattoo facilities are: District of Columbia, Georgia, Idaho, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Utah and Wyoming. This requirement is related to concerns about hepatitis. Learn more about hepatitis and blood donation. Wait 3 months after treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea. Acceptable if it has been more than 3 months since you completed treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea. Chlamydia, venereal warts (human papilloma virus), or genital herpes are not a cause for deferral if you are feeling healthy and well and meet all other eligibility requirements. Unable to Give Blood? Do not give blood if you have AIDS or have ever had a positive HIV test, or if you have done something that puts you at risk for becoming infected with HIV. You are at risk for getting infected if you:
Do not give blood if you have any of the following conditions that can be signs or symptoms of HIV/AIDS:
Wait 3 months after the last dose of any oral medications taken to prevent HIV infection [also known as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) - Truvada (Tenofovir), Descovy (emtricitabine), Tivicay (dolutegravir) and Isentress (raltegravir) are oral medications given for exposure to HIV. Wait 2 years after the last injection or shot of medication taken to prevent HIV infection also known as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)- Apretude (cabotegravir ) are injections or shots given for exposure to HIV. Unable to Give Blood? See also "Sexually Transmitted Disease" Wait 3 months after treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea. Chlamydia, venereal warts (human papilloma virus), or genital herpes are not a cause for deferral if you are feeling healthy and well and meet all other eligibility requirements. ","category": {"name": "Sexually Transmitted Diseases","slug": "eligibility-stds"}},{"title": "Syphilis/Gonorrhea","description": "Wait 3 months after treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea. Acceptable as long as the instruments used were single-use equipment and disposable (which means both the gun and the earring cassette were disposable). Wait 3 months if a piercing was performed using a reusable gun or any reusable instrument. Wait 3 months if there is any question whether or not the instruments used were single-use equipment. This requirement is related to concerns about hepatitis. Learn more about hepatitis and blood donation. ","category": {"name": "Lifestyle and Life Events","slug": "eligibility-lifestyle"}},{"title": "Measles Exposure","description": "Acceptable if you are healthy and well and have been vaccinated for measles more than 4 weeks ago or were born before 1956. If you have not been vaccinated or it has been less than 4 weeks since being vaccinated, wait 4 weeks from the date of the vaccination or exposure before donating. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "I am interested in hosting a blood drive, who do I contact?","description": "Please complete this online form and a Red Cross representative will contact you. Any organization can participate in the blood program. Based on experience, the organization should have enough members to hold a blood drive, but your Red Cross representative will work with you determine how you can partner with the Red Cross if you have fewer people. Learn more about requirements for hosting. Blood drives can be held either on a Red Cross blood donation bus or in the facility of the hosting organization. Most sponsors choose to host the drive in their facility. However, our Red Cross representative will work with you to determine the best set up for your blood drive. Please see recruitment strategies and tips. All donors are required to be truly “volunteer” donors by the FDA, and not be reimbursed for their donation, so any gift or incentive offered must be offered to all participants of a blood drive – donors and volunteers alike. This helps ensure all people are honest about their health history. All incentives offered must be reviewed and approved by your Red Cross representative. Red Cross employees implemented added precautions to ensure blood drives and donation centers are safe for donors and staff. Learn about the COVID-19 safety precautions at Red Cross blood drives. If you work for an American Red Cross Immunohematology Reference Lab (IRL) or Creative Testing Solutions (CTS) you are an “internal” customer. Any other customer is considered “external.” Our easy to use website contains versions of the Directions for Use associated with each in date lot number of product. This saves everyone money by not printing extra paper copies. Some antibody specificities require adsorption with red blood cells to remove unwanted antibodies (eg. Anti-A, Anti-B, Anti-D). During this process some hemolysis occurs, which colors the serum. Depending on the number of adsorptions required, the color may be darker or lighter. The color does not affect the antigen-antibody reaction. Human plasma is composed of many proteins. They are sometimes more visible from one reagent to another. American Red Cross IRLs or CTS order their products directly from DMD via Contact DMD . External customers must order products via our distributor, Hemo Bioscience, Inc. Navigate to the specific page associated with the product. Select the lot number (printed on the product vial); the associated Directions for Use will load as a .pdf file. If this does not work, please contact us at Contact DMD Hemo Bioscience, Inc. offers a more comprehensive product line to make your ordering easier. Directions for Use do not change often; the version is updated when changes are made. The version is located following the text, usually at the bottom right.
No, they are produced from pools of donor antibody plasma, making them polyclonal reagents. Storage requirements are listed on the label and in the Directions for Use. Directions for Use do not change often; the version is updated when changes are made. The version is located following the text, usually at the bottom right.
Donating blood is a simple thing to do, but can make a big difference in the lives of others. The donation process from the time you arrive until the time you leave takes about an hour. The donation itself is only about 8-10 minutes on average. The steps in the process are: Registration
Health History and Mini Physical
Donation
Refreshments
Your gift of blood may help up to three people. Donated red blood cells do not last forever. They have a shelf-life of up to 42 days. A healthy donor may donate every 56 days. ","category": {"name": "Blood Donation Process","slug": "donating-blood-blood-donation-process"}},{"title": "What should I do after donating blood?","description": "After you give blood: Take the following precautions:
Only for a moment. Pinch the fleshy, soft underside of your arm. That pinch is similar to what you will feel when the needle is inserted. The entire process takes about one hour and 15 minutes; the actual donation of a pint of whole blood unit takes eight to 10 minutes. However, the time varies slightly with each person depending on several factors including the donor’s health history and attendance at the blood drive. The plasma from your donation is replaced within about 24 hours. Red cells need about four to six weeks for complete replacement. That’s why at least eight weeks are required between whole blood donations. The highest priorities of the Red Cross are the safety of the blood supply and our blood donors. Some individuals may be at risk of transferring communicable disease through blood donation due to exposure via travel or other activities or may encounter problems with blood donation due to their health. We ask these questions to ensure that it is safe for patients to receive your blood and to ensure that it is safe for you to donate blood that day. You must wait at least eight weeks (56 days) between donations of whole blood and 16 weeks (112 days) between Power Red donations. Whole blood donors can donate up to 6 times a year. Platelet apheresis donors may give every 7 days up to 24 times per year. Regulations are different for those giving blood for themselves (autologous donors). In most states, donors must be age 17 or older. Some states allow donation by 16-year-olds with a signed parental consent form. Donors must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Additional eligibility criteria apply. At this time, we are allowing additional guests or children to accompany donors to their donation appointment. Guests are expected to follow any safety protocols in place at the time of donation. The safety of our donors, volunteers, and employees is of the utmost importance. Children who do not require supervision and are not disruptive are welcome to sit in the waiting or refreshment area. If they require supervision another adult must be present. ","category": {"name": "Blood Donation Process","slug": "donating-blood-blood-donation-process"}},{"title": "What is apheresis?","description": "Apheresis is the process by which platelets and other specific blood components (red cells or plasma) are collected from a donor. The word “apheresis” is derived from the Greek word aphaeresis meaning “to take away.” This process is accomplished by using a machine called a cell separator. Blood is drawn from the donor and the platelets, or another blood component, are collected by the cell separator and the remaining components of the blood are returned to the donor during the donation. Each apheresis donation procedure takes about one-and-one-half to two hours. Donors can watch movies or relax during the donation. Platelets are tiny, colorless, disc-shaped particles circulating in the blood, and they are essential for normal blood clotting. Platelets are critically important to the survival of many patients with clotting problems (aplastic anemia, leukemia) or cancer, and patients who will undergo organ transplants or major surgeries like heart bypass grafts. Platelets can only be stored for five days after being collected. Maintaining an adequate supply of this lifesaving, perishable product is an ongoing challenge. Every 7 days up to 24 apheresis donations can be made in a year. Some apheresis donations can generate two or three adult-sized platelet transfusion doses from one donation! Healthy individuals are needed to help patients counting on lifesaving blood. The need for blood is constant, and volunteer donors are the only source of blood for those in need of transfusions. Blood donation is an "essential service" and "critical infrastructure" function as determined by the United States Department of Homeland Security and many other federal, state and local authorities. Like a hospital, grocery store, or pharmacy, a blood drive is essential to ensuring the health of the community, and the Red Cross will continue to hold blood drives during this challenging time to help meet patient needs. The Department of Health and Human Services, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Food and Drug Administration have issued statements encouraging blood donation for those who are well. It’s important to note that blood drives have the high standards of safety and infection control. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What safety precautions are in place at Red Cross blood drives to protect staff and donors? ","description": "Safety is our top priority. The Red Cross only collects blood from individuals who are healthy and feeling well at the time of donation. To help keep everyone attending Red Cross blood drives and visiting blood donation centers safe as COVID-19 cases are surging again, the Red Cross requires all blood donors, staff and others to wear a face mask regardless of their vaccination status. At each blood drive and donation center, Red Cross employees have always followed thorough safety protocols to help prevent the spread of any type of infection, including: • Wearing gloves and changing gloves often • Routinely disinfecting donor-touched areas • Using sterile collection sets for every donation, and • Preparing the arm for donation with an aseptic scrub. Additionally, we will continue to utilize additional precautions put into place earlier during the pandemic– to ensure the safety of our employees, volunteers and donors, including: • Hand sanitizer available before entering the drive, as well as throughout the donation process. • All surfaces and equipment receive enhanced disinfection. • Donation appointment emphasis to help manage the flow of donors at drives. These mitigation measures will help ensure staff and donor safety in reducing contact with those who may potentially have COVID-19, or any, respiratory infection. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can donors wear homemade masks, such as cloth masks, bandanas, etc.?","description": "Yes, as long as the cloth or homemade mask covers both their nose and mouth in alignment with updated CDC guidelines. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What if a donor doesn’t want to wear a mask? For example, what if they have a medical condition that makes it difficult or impossible to wear a mask?","description": "To ensure the safety of our staff and the blood donor community, if a donor does not want to wear a face mask, we ask they postpone their donation for a later date when masks may no longer be required. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "I tried to make an appointment to donate blood, but there are no blood drives near me?","description": "Like many organizations, the Red Cross continues to face pandemic challenges that have forced some blood donor appointments and drives to be canceled. Please know, the Red Cross is working tirelessly to overcome these obstacles to meet the needs of patients as quickly as possible. We apologize for any inconvenience. Please do not feel discouraged if there is not an immediate appointment available — patients still need you. During this challenging time, we hope you will still be able to find a location and time to give for patients who are counting on us. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can donors wear a mask at a blood drive?","description": "Yes. As the nation actively responds and navigates to this evolving pandemic, we are all having to make difficult decisions to ensure our health and safety. The Red Cross follows the highest standards of safety and infection control. For the safety of our donors and staff, the Red Cross requires all those at blood drives and blood donation centers to wear a face mask regardless of their vaccination status. Valve face masks are not permitted. Face shields can be worn in addition to face masks but not as a substitute. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can staff or donors wear face masks with valves?","description": "In alignment with the CDC, the Red Cross does not permit valve face masks at our blood drives or donation centers for employees, volunteers or donors. Valve face masks protect the individual wearing the mask, but do not protect those who come into contact with them. The Red Cross is committed to ensuring the safest environment possible for all those who engage in our lifesaving mission. If a donor or staff would like to wear a valve mask, they will need to place an additional mask, such as a surgical mask or cloth mask, over the valve mask while at the blood drive. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Am I eligible to donate if I have been quarantined for COVID-19?","description": "If you are quarantined for any reason, you are not eligible to donate during the quarantine time period. If you are past the quarantine time and have been symptom-free for 10 days, you will be eligible to donate blood. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What if I become sick after donating?","description": "Donors should call our Donor Support Center at 1-866-236-3276 if they become sick with any illness in the days after their donation. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can I donate after receiving the COVID-19 vaccination?","description": "You may still donate blood, platelets and plasma after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. Knowing the name of the manufacturer of the vaccine is important in determining your blood donation eligibility. Learn more about COVID-19 vaccines and blood donation. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Are Red Cross staff members required to wear face masks?","description": "Beginning April 25, the Red Cross no longer requires that its vaccinated employees and volunteers wear masks. Of course, individuals may choose to continue to wear a mask for any reason and we will continue to make masks available for those in attendance at blood drives and donation centers. If state or local laws differ from our policy, the Red Cross will remain in compliance with these laws. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What safety precautions are in place at Red Cross blood drives to protect staff and donors?","description": "Safety is our top priority. The Red Cross only collects blood from individuals who are healthy and feeling well at the time of donation. At each blood drive and donation center, Red Cross employees have always followed thorough safety protocols to help prevent the spread of any type of infection, including: • Wearing gloves and changing gloves often • Routinely disinfecting donor-touched areas • Using sterile collection sets for every donation, and • Preparing the arm for donation with an aseptic scrub. Additionally, we will continue to utilize additional precautions put into place earlier during the pandemic to ensure the safety of our employees, volunteers and donors, including: • Hand sanitizer available at all drives • Donation appointment emphasis to help manage the flow of donors at drives. • Social distancing where possible. These mitigation measures will help ensure staff and donor safety in reducing contact with those who may potentially have COVID-19 or any respiratory infection. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Can donors wear a mask at a blood drive or blood donation center?","description": "Yes, individuals may choose to continue to wear a mask for any reason, and we will continue to make masks available for those in attendance at blood drives and donation centers. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "Is the Red Cross testing for COVID-19 antibodies?","description": "The American Red Cross is no longer testing all donations for COVID-19 antibodies. The Red Cross resumed testing all donations for COVID-19 antibodies to help build up its inventory of convalescent plasma to help critically ill patients battling the virus amid the delta and omicron surges this past winter. Since then, the Red Cross has been able to build a sufficient inventory of convalescent plasma products to meet the needs of patients now and in the future. As such, only donations collected through June 3, 2022, will be tested for COVID-19 antibodies. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What if I have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 10 days?","description": "You must be fully recovered from COVID-19 and symptom-free for a least 10 days before donating blood. If you have had a positive diagnostic test in the past 10 days for COVID-19 but didn’t have symptoms, you will need to wait 10 days after the COVID-19 test. If you have a pending COVID-19 diagnostic test for COVID-19, you are not able to donate during this time. Once you have tested negative or been symptom-free for 10 days you will be eligible to donate blood. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "What if a blood donor has a special health condition and would like their phlebotomist to wear a mask?","description": "Red Cross employees and volunteers will graciously accommodate mask requests from donors where close interaction occurs. There are many reasons individuals may need additional safety protocols during the pandemic, and as a humanitarian organization, we will continue to be understanding and caring to all. The Red Cross will also continue to socially distance wherever possible at our blood drives, donation centers and facilities. Safety remains our top priority. ","category": {"name": "Coronavirus (COVID-19)","slug": "donating-blood-coronavirus--covid-19-"}},{"title": "When will donors be notified of their test results? And how can donors access test results? ","description": "Red Cross donors can expect to receive the results of their sickle cell trait screening within one to two weeks through our Red Cross Blood Donor App or on our donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why does the Red Cross ask donors to select their race at the time of donation?","description": "The Red Cross asks blood and platelet donors to select their race and ethnicity at the time of donation to help meet the unique transfusion needs of a diverse patient population. By identifying a donor’s race and ethnicity, it helps the Red Cross better and more efficiently locate rare blood types to best meet the needs of all patients of all backgrounds. Certain blood characteristics are inherited making them more likely to be found within certain donor groups. These matched blood products provide a more compatible unit for transfusion to patients in need. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What does a “inconsistent” result mean? ","description": "An inconsistent result means that the Red Cross is not able to confirm a positive or negative screening result. In some cases, this is because the Red Cross immunohematology-reference laboratory may have previously tested their donation for sickle cell trait at the request of a hospital to fulfill a specific product need. In these cases, the donor may have received a previous result of negative or positive. While the Red Cross will work to resolve many inconsistent results, portion will remain inconsistent. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What does it mean to carry the sickle cell trait? ","description": "It is estimated that about 1 in 13 Black or African American babies in the U.S. is born with sickle cell trait, which means they have inherited the sickle cell gene from one of their parents. Carrying the sickle cell trait does not mean that an individual has sickle cell disease. Individuals who only carry the sickle cell trait are eligible to donate blood. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How does this screening differ from a sickle cell trait diagnostic test? ","description": "Sickle cell trait screening is not a diagnostic test. This screening is performed on a blood sample given during the standard donation process to look for the presence of an abnormal type of hemoglobin, called hemoglobin S or sickled hemoglobin, a key indicator of sickle cell trait. This means it is likely the individual inherited one sickle cell gene and one normal gene from their parents. If an individual receives a positive result, they should consult their medical provider to discuss their test results and pursue additional confirmatory diagnostic testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why is the Red Cross only screening donations from African American donors for sickle cell trait?","description": "The Red Cross is testing blood donations from individuals of African descent because the sickle cell disease trait is most commonly carried within this demographic. In fact, 8-10% of African Americans have sickle cell trait. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How is the Red Cross able to fund sickle cell screening if it is not charging donors? ","description": "The Red Cross is working to rally the support of generous financial donors to help fund this program. We are also looking into other possible funding sources. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why is it beneficial for Black individuals to know if they have the sickle cell trait? ","description": "Many individuals with sickle cell trait are unaware of their status. Sickle cell trait is inherited and means that an individual received one sickle cell gene and one normal gene from their parents. While, carrying the trait does not mean that an individual has sickle cell disease, health experts recommend that individuals with sickle cell trait be aware of their status and consult their medical provider on what it means for them. In general, many individuals who carry the sickle cell trait have no medical problems related to sickle cell trait. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How accurate are the sickle cell test screenings the Red Cross is using? ","description": "The sickle cell trait screenings the Red Cross is using are highly accurate and effective at detecting the presence of an abnormal type of hemoglobin a key indicator of sickle cell trait. However, these screening are not perfect. As with all tests and screening, false results, or a screening result that incorrectly states the presence of abnormal hemoglobin, can occur. This is why those who receive a positive result are encouraged to consult their medical provider for confirmatory testing and discuss what their results mean for them. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How long will the Red Cross be screening blood donations for the sickle cell trait? ","description": "The Red Cross plans to screen blood, platelet and plasma donations from self-identified African American blood donors through June 30, 2023. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Will there be a donor charge for this screening? ","description": "No. Like other blood donation screenings, sickle cell trait screening is part of the blood donation testing process which occurs at no charge to the donor. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why is the Red Cross expanding it’s testing to include sickle cell trait screening on all donations from self-identified African American donors.","description": "We understand that for many donors, having greater insight into their health during this pandemic is important to them—as such the Red Cross has expanded its testing to include sickle cell trait screening on all donations from self-identified African American donors. In addition, this screening helps the Red Cross identify compatible blood types to help sickle cell patients more quickly. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What if someone is not eligible to give blood, can they still receive a sickle cell trait screening? ","description": "Donors will need to have a successful donation to receive sickle cell trait screening results. Per standard donation procedure, only successful donations are sent to our laboratory for screening. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What does it mean to have a negative sickle cell screening result? ","description": "A negative result indicates that screening did not detect sickle hemoglobin or Hemoglobin S—a key indicator of sickle cell trait. This means that the individual is likely not a sickle cell trait carrier. It is important to note, that the Red Cross is not screening for other abnormal hemoglobin cells that can also cause sickling-- such as Hemoglobin C. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Will sickle cell trait screening change the donation process for presenting donors? ","description": "No. The Red Cross blood donation process at our blood drives and donation centers will not change. Blood, platelet and plasma donations will be screened using samples obtained at the time of donation and sent to a testing laboratory where the samples will also undergo routine screening and infectious disease testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Can individuals that only carry the sickle cell trait donate blood?","description": "Individuals who only carry the sickle cell trait are eligible to donate blood. These blood products will not be used to help sickle cell patients but can help other patients in need of lifesaving blood. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Is this screening a new testing initiative for the Red Cross? ","description": "No. Red Cross immunohematology-reference laboratories (IRL) have historically tested select donations for sickle cell trait at the request of a hospital partner actively looking to fulfill a specific blood product need. This spring we are expanding our screening to include all blood, platelet and plasma donations from self-identified African American donors to allow us to identify compatible blood donations even faster to help patients in need of a blood transfusion. Donations from Black individuals who do not carry the sickle cell trait are often the most compatible blood products for sickle cell patients. However, 51 percent of African Americans have type O (positive or negative) blood, in comparison to approximately 45 percent of white individuals. Type O blood is most often in critical supply as it is most often needed by hospitals. Black donors play a vital role in helping meet the needs of all patients including—individuals who experience complicated childbirths, people fighting cancer, and accident victims being raced to emergency rooms. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Do donors need to have a successful donation to receive a sickle cell trait screening result? ","description": "Yes. Donors will need to have a successful donation to receive sickle cell trait screening results. Per standard donation procedure, only successful donations are sent to our laboratory for testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What if I don’t have the app or have internet access? How can I get my test results? ","description": "The Red Cross encourages donors to access their screening results through our Red Cross Blood Donor App or on our donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org. This will provide the most expedient access to test results. If a donor has questions or issues with the Blood Donor App or portal functionality, please contact 855-210-1278. If a donor does not have internet service and therefore cannot use the two recommended channels, they may call the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center 14 days after donation at 1-866-236-3276 to obtain their results. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What test is the Red Cross using to screen donations for the sickle cell trait? ","description": "The Red Cross is using the Pacific Hemostasis® SickleScreen® Sickling Hemoglobin Screening Kit and the Streck Sickledex® Solubility Testing Kit. This test is used to detect abnormal sickling hemoglobin cells or Hemoglobin S. We recognize there are other abnormal hemoglobin cells that can cause sickling however this test rarely detects of presence of these other hemoglobin cells. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Why wasn’t my donation screened for sickle cell trait? ","description": "While rare, some donations may not be able to be tested due to processing issues. Donors will need to have a successful donation to receive sickle cell trait screening results. Per standard procedures, only successful donations are sent to our laboratory for testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What does it mean to have a positive sickle cell screening result? ","description": "A positive result indicates that the screening detected the presence of an abnormal type of hemoglobin called hemoglobin S or sickle hemoglobin, a key indicator of sickle cell trait. This means it is likely the individual inherited one sickle cell gene and one normal gene from their parents. If an individual receives a positive result, they should consult their medical provider to discuss their test results and pursue additional confirmatory testing. In addition to providing individuals with their results via the Blood Donor App and donor portal on RedCrossBlood.org, those who have positive results will also receive a letter in the mail. It’s important to note, that carrying the sickle cell trait does not mean that an individual has sickle cell disease. In general, many individuals who carry the sickle cell trait have no medical problems related to sickle cell trait. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Is this sickle cell trait screenings the Red Cross is using FDA approved? ","description": "The Red Cross is using the Pacific Hemostasis® SickleScreen® Sickling Hemoglobin Screening Kit and the Streck Sickledex® Solubility Testing Kit to screen donations from self-identified African Americans for abnormal hemoglobin—a key indicator of sickle cell trait. Both screenings are authorized for use by the FDA and are highly accurate. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Will the Red Cross be providing sickle cell trait screening results to anyone beside the donor? ","description": "No. The Red Cross will not release your screening result or any other test result without your written permission unless required by law. The Red Cross is only required to report positive sickle cell trait results in writing to donor. We do encourage those individuals who receive a positive sickle cell trait result to consult their medical provider to discuss their test results and pursue additional confirmatory testing. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "What if a donor does not want to have their donation screened for sickle cell trait? ","description": "If an individual does not want their donation to be screened for sickle cell trait, they should select the “I prefer not to answer or other” response regarding their race and ethnicity. Only donations from self-identified African American donors will be screened for sickle cell trait. Self-identifying your race and ethnicity helps the Red Cross better and more efficiently locate rare blood types to best meet the needs of all patients of all backgrounds. Certain blood characteristics are inherited making them more likely to be found within certain donor groups. These matched blood products provide a more compatible unit for transfusion to patients in need ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "How does this screening test differ from the required sickle cell test performed on newborns at risk for sickle cell disease and/or sickle cell trait? ","description": "Since May 2006, all babies receive a newborn screening test for sickle cell anemia to identify a potential medical emergency, appropriately treat the disease early and reduce infant mortality. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": "Will every donation be screened every time? ","description": "No, because a donor’s sickle cell trait status does not change over time, donations will only be tested once. This information, along with other blood type attributes becomes part of an individual’s confidential donor record and is used to help the Red Cross identify compatible units for patients in crisis as quickly as possible. ","category": {"name": "Sickle Cell Trait Screening","slug": "donating-blood-sickle-cell-trait-screen"}},{"title": " Why isn’t the Red Cross testing self-identified mixed-race individuals for sickle cell trait?","description": "While it’s true that people of all races and ethnicities can carry the sickle cell trait, its most commonly Aspirin, no waiting period for donating whole blood. However, you must wait 2 full days after taking aspirin or any medication containing aspirin before donating platelets by apheresis. For example, if you take aspirin products on Monday, the soonest you can donate platelets is Thursday. ","category": {"name": "Medications and Vaccinations","slug": "eligibility-medications"}},{"title": "Antibiotics","description": "A donor with an acute infection can not donate. The reason for antibiotic use must be evaluated to determine if the donor has a bacterial infection that could be transmissible by blood. Acceptable after finishing oral antibiotics for an infection (bacterial or viral). Can have taken last pill on the date of donation. Antibiotic by injection for an infection acceptable 10 days after last injection. Acceptable if you are taking antibiotics to prevent an infection for the following reasons: acne, chronic prostatitis, peptic ulcer disease, periodontal disease, pre-dental work, rosacea, ulcerative colitis, after a splenectomy, or valvular heart disease. If you have a temperature above 99.5 F, you can not donate. ","category": {"name": "Medications and Vaccinations","slug": "eligibility-medications"}},{"title": "Birth Control","description": "Individuals on oral contraceptives or using other forms of birth control are eligible to donate.
Donors with diabetes who take any kind of insulin are eligible to donate as long their diabetes is well controlled. ","category": {"name": "Medications and Vaccinations","slug": "eligibility-medications"}},{"title": "Medications","description": "In almost all cases, medications will not disqualify you as a blood donor. Your eligibility will be based on the reason that the medication was prescribed. As long as the condition is under control and you are healthy, blood donation is usually permitted. Over-the-counter oral homeopathic medications, herbal remedies, and nutritional supplements are acceptable. There are a handful of drugs that are of special significance in blood donation. Persons on these drugs have waiting periods following their last dose before they can donate blood:
Unable to Give Blood?
You must weigh at least 110 lbs to be eligible for blood donation for your own safety. Students who donate at high school drives and donors 18 years of age or younger must also meet additional height and weight requirements for whole blood donation (applies to girls shorter than 5'5" and boys shorter than 5'). Unable to Give Blood? Acceptable as long as you feel well, have no fever, and have no problems breathing through your mouth.
You can be exposed to malaria through travel and travel in some areas can sometimes defer donors. If you have traveled outside of the United States and Canada, your travel destinations will be reviewed at the time of donation. Come prepared to your donation process with your travel details when you donate. You can download the travel form and bring it with you to help in the assessment of your travel. You can call 866-236-3276 to speak with an eligibility specialist about your travel. If, in the past 3 years, you have been outside the United States or Canada:
Malaria is transmitted by the bite of mosquitoes found in certain countries and can be transmitted to patients through blood transfusion. Blood donations are not tested for malaria because there is no sensitive blood test available for malaria. If you have traveled or lived in a malaria-risk country, a waiting period is required before you can donate blood
Unable to Give Blood? If you have been diagnosed with Zika virus infection, wait more than 120 days after your symptoms resolve to donate. Unable to Give Blood? You are not eligible to donate if you have ever had Ebola virus infection or disease. Unable to Give Blood? Acceptable as long as you feel well, have no fever, and have no problems breathing through your mouth. Acceptable as long as you do not have any limitations on daily activities and are not having difficulty breathing at the time of donation and you otherwise feel well. Medications for asthma do not disqualify you from donating. If you have a history of bleeding problems, you will be asked additional questions. If your blood does not clot normally, you can not donate since you may have excessive bleeding where the needle was placed. For the same reason, do not donate if you are taking any "blood thinner" such as:
If you are on aspirin, it is OK to donate whole blood. However, you must be off of aspirin for at least 2 full days in order to donate platelets by apheresis. For example, if you take aspirin products on Monday, the soonest you can donate platelets is Thursday. Donors with clotting disorder from Factor V who are not on anticoagulants are eligible to donate; however, all others must be evaluated by the health historian at the collection center. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Blood Pressure (High or Low)","description": "High Blood Pressure - Acceptable as long as your blood pressure is below 180 systolic (first number) and below 100 diastolic (second number) at the time of donation. Medications for high blood pressure do not disqualify you from donating. Low Blood Pressure - Acceptable as long as you feel well when you come to donate, and your blood pressure is at least 90/50 (systolic/diastolic). Learn more about Blood Pressure ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Pulse (High or Low)","description": "Acceptable as long as your pulse is no more than 100 and no less than 50. A pulse that is regular and less than 50 will require evaluation by the regional American Red Cross physician. When you come to donate blood at the American Red Cross, we measure your blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and hemoglobin because the results provide information about your current health at the time of your donation. The Red Cross does not diagnose medical conditions or offer treatment. Physical exam results vary throughout the day. Stress, nutrition, illness, hydration, weight, activity, environment and even consumption of certain ingredients (for example, salt or caffeine) can affect the results of the physical exam. If your result does not meet the minimum/maximum requirement at the time of your attempted donation you will not be permitted to donate. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Cancer","description": "Eligibility depends on the type of cancer and treatment history. If you had leukemia or lymphoma, including Hodgkin’s Disease and other cancers of the blood, you are not eligible to donate. Other types of cancer are acceptable if the cancer has been treated successfully and it has been more than 12 months since treatment was completed and there has been no cancer recurrence in this time. Lower risk in-situ cancers including squamous or basal cell cancers of the skin that have been completely removed and healed do not require a 12-month waiting period. Unable to Give Blood? Most chronic illnesses are acceptable as long as you feel well, the condition is under control, and you meet all other eligibility requirements. Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) If you ever received a dura mater (brain covering) transplant you are not eligible to donate. If you received an injection of cadaveric pituitary human growth hormone (hGH) you cannot donate. Human cadaveric pituitary-derived hGH was available in the U.S. from 1958 to 1985. Growth hormone received after 1985 is acceptable. If you have been diagnosed with vCJD, CJD or any other TSE or have a blood relative diagnosed with genetic CJD (e.g., fCJD, GSS, or FFI) you cannot donate. See Eligibility Reference Material Unable to Give Blood? Diabetics who are well controlled on insulin or oral medications are eligible to donate. In general, acceptable as long as you have been medically evaluated and treated, have no current (within the last 6 months) heart related symptoms such as chest pain and have no limitations or restrictions on your normal daily activities. Wait at least 6 months following an episode of angina. Wait at least 6 months following a heart attack. Wait at least 6 months after bypass surgery or angioplasty. Wait at least 6 months after a change in your heart condition that resulted in a change to your medications If you have a pacemaker, you can donate as long as your pulse is between 50 and 100 beats per minute and you meet the other heart disease criteria. Discuss your particular situation with your personal healthcare provider and the health historian at the time of donation. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Heart Murmur, Heart Valve Disorder","description": "Acceptable if you have a heart murmur as long as you have been medically evaluated and treated and have not had symptoms in the last 6 months and have no restrictions on your normal daily activities. Acceptable if you meet all eligibility criteria and donation intervals. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, Blood Count","description": "In order to donate blood, a woman must have a hemoglobin level of at least 12.5 g/dL, and a man must have a hemoglobin level of at least 13.0 g/dL. For all donors, the hemoglobin level can be no greater than 20 g/dL. When you come to donate blood at the American Red Cross, we measure your blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and hemoglobin because the results provide information about your current health at the time of your donation. The Red Cross does not diagnose medical conditions or offer treatment. Physical exam results vary throughout the day. Stress, nutrition, illness, hydration, weight, activity, environment and even consumption of certain ingredients (for example, salt or caffeine) can affect the results of the physical exam. If your result does not meet the minimum/maximum requirement at the time of your attempted donation you will not be permitted to donate. Separate requirements for hemoglobin level apply for Power Red. Learn more about Hematocrit. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Hepatitis, Jaundice","description": "If you have signs or symptoms of hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) caused by a virus, or unexplained jaundice (yellow discoloration of the skin), you are not eligible to donate blood. If you ever tested positive for hepatitis B or hepatitis C, at any age, you are not eligible to donate, even if you were never sick or jaundiced from the infection. Unable to Give Blood? If you live with or have had sexual contact with a person who has hepatitis, you must wait 12 months after the last contact. Persons who have been detained or incarcerated in a facility (juvenile detention, lockup, jail, or prison) for 72 hours or more consecutively (3 days) are deferred for 12 months from the date of last occurrence. This includes work release programs and weekend incarceration. These persons are at higher risk for exposure to infectious diseases. Wait 3 months after receiving a blood transfusion (unless it was your own "autologous" blood), non-sterile needle stick or exposure to someone else's blood. Unable to Give Blood? Do not give blood if you have AIDS or have ever had a positive HIV test, or if you have done something that puts you at risk for becoming infected with HIV. You are at risk for getting infected if you:
Do not give blood if you have any of the following conditions that can be signs or symptoms of HIV/AIDS:
Unable to Give Blood? See "Blood Pressure (High)" If you have a fever or an active infection, wait until the infection has resolved completely before donating blood. Monkeypox infection or exposure, wait a minimum of 21 days, then contact the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center at 1-866-236-3276 to discuss your particular situation to determine if you can donate. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "Malaria","description": "Malaria is transmitted by the bite of mosquitoes found in certain countries and can be transmitted to patients through blood transfusion. Blood donations are not tested for malaria because there is no sensitive blood test available for malaria. If you have traveled or lived in a malaria-risk country, a waiting period is required before you can donate blood.
If you have traveled outside of the United States and Canada, your travel destinations will be reviewed at the time of donation. Please, come prepared to discuss your travel details when you donate. You can download the travel form and bring it with you to help in the assessment of your travel. You can call 866-236-3276 to speak with an eligibility specialist about your travel. If, in the past 3 years, you have been outside the United States or Canada:
Acceptable if you have sickle cell trait. Those with sickle cell disease are not eligible to donate. Acceptable as long as the skin over the vein to be used to collect blood is not affected. If the skin disease has become infected, wait until the infection has cleared before donating. Taking antibiotics to control acne does not disqualify you from donating. If you have active tuberculosis or are being treated for active tuberculosis do not donate. Acceptable if you have a positive skin test or blood test, but no active tuberculosis and are NOT taking antibiotics. If you are receiving antibiotics for a positive TB skin test or blood test only or if you are being treated for a tuberculosis infection, wait until treatment is successfully completed before donating. Donors who have undergone acupuncture treatments are acceptable. Wait for 3 months after receiving a blood transfusion from another person. Acceptable after dental procedures as long as there is no infection present. Wait until finishing antibiotics for a dental infection. Wait for 3 days after having oral surgery. Women on hormone replacement therapy for menopausal symptoms and prevention of osteoporosis are eligible to donate. Wait 3 months after receiving any type of organ transplant from another person. If you ever received a dura mater (brain covering) transplant, you are not eligible to donate. This requirement is related to concerns about the brain disease, Creutzfeld-Jacob Disease (CJD). If you ever received a transplant of animal organs or of living animal tissue - you are not eligible to donate blood. Non-living animal tissues such as bone, tendon, or heart valves are acceptable. Unable to Give Blood? It is not necessarily surgery but the underlying condition that precipitated the surgery that requires evaluation before donation. Evaluation is on a case by case basis. Discuss your particular situation with the health historian at the time of donation. You must be at least 17 years old to donate to the general blood supply, or 16 years old with parental/guardian consent, if allowed by state law. Learn more. There is no upper age limit for blood donation as long as you are well with no restrictions or limitations to your activities. First-time male donors may be eligible to donate blood if they have not had sex with another man in more than 3 months. All additional blood donation eligibility criteria will apply. Donors who were previously deferred under the prior MSM policy will be evaluated for reinstatement. Individuals who have been deferred for MSM in the past can initiate donor reinstatement by contacting the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center at 1-866-236-3276. Individuals with questions about their donation eligibility can contact the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center at 1-866-236-3276. For the purposes of blood donation gender is self-identified and self-reported, which is relevant to the transgender community. More information about the FDA policy is available for LGBTQ+ donors. Unable to Give Blood? Wait 3 months after using IV drugs that were not prescribed by a physician. This requirement is related to concerns about hepatitis and HIV. Learn more about hepatitis and blood donation. Persons who are pregnant are not eligible to donate. Wait 6 weeks after giving birth. Wait 3 months after a tattoo if the tattoo was applied in a state that does not regulate tattoo facilities. Currently, the only states that DO NOT regulate tattoo facilities are: District of Columbia, Georgia, Idaho, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Utah and Wyoming. This requirement is related to concerns about hepatitis. Learn more about hepatitis and blood donation. Wait 3 months after treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea. Acceptable if it has been more than 3 months since you completed treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea. Chlamydia, venereal warts (human papilloma virus), or genital herpes are not a cause for deferral if you are feeling healthy and well and meet all other eligibility requirements. Unable to Give Blood? Do not give blood if you have AIDS or have ever had a positive HIV test, or if you have done something that puts you at risk for becoming infected with HIV. You are at risk for getting infected if you:
Do not give blood if you have any of the following conditions that can be signs or symptoms of HIV/AIDS:
Wait 3 months after the last dose of any oral medications taken to prevent HIV infection [also known as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) - Truvada (Tenofovir), Descovy (emtricitabine), Tivicay (dolutegravir) and Isentress (raltegravir) are oral medications given for exposure to HIV. Wait 2 years after the last injection or shot of medication taken to prevent HIV infection also known as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)- Apretude (cabotegravir ) are injections or shots given for exposure to HIV. Unable to Give Blood? See also "Sexually Transmitted Disease" Wait 3 months after treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea. Chlamydia, venereal warts (human papilloma virus), or genital herpes are not a cause for deferral if you are feeling healthy and well and meet all other eligibility requirements. ","category": {"name": "Sexually Transmitted Diseases","slug": "eligibility-stds"}},{"title": "Syphilis/Gonorrhea","description": "Wait 3 months after treatment for syphilis or gonorrhea. Acceptable as long as the instruments used were single-use equipment and disposable (which means both the gun and the earring cassette were disposable). Wait 3 months if a piercing was performed using a reusable gun or any reusable instrument. Wait 3 months if there is any question whether or not the instruments used were single-use equipment. This requirement is related to concerns about hepatitis. Learn more about hepatitis and blood donation. ","category": {"name": "Lifestyle and Life Events","slug": "eligibility-lifestyle"}},{"title": "Measles Exposure","description": "Acceptable if you are healthy and well and have been vaccinated for measles more than 4 weeks ago or were born before 1956. If you have not been vaccinated or it has been less than 4 weeks since being vaccinated, wait 4 weeks from the date of the vaccination or exposure before donating. ","category": {"name": "Medical Conditions that Affect Eligibility","slug": "eligibility-medicalconditions"}},{"title": "I am interested in hosting a blood drive, who do I contact?","description": "Please complete this online form and a Red Cross representative will contact you. Any organization can participate in the blood program. Based on experience, the organization should have enough members to hold a blood drive, but your Red Cross representative will work with you determine how you can partner with the Red Cross if you have fewer people. Learn more about requirements for hosting. Blood drives can be held either on a Red Cross blood donation bus or in the facility of the hosting organization. Most sponsors choose to host the drive in their facility. However, our Red Cross representative will work with you to determine the best set up for your blood drive. Please see recruitment strategies and tips. All donors are required to be truly “volunteer” donors by the FDA, and not be reimbursed for their donation, so any gift or incentive offered must be offered to all participants of a blood drive – donors and volunteers alike. This helps ensure all people are honest about their health history. All incentives offered must be reviewed and approved by your Red Cross representative. Red Cross employees implemented added precautions to ensure blood drives and donation centers are safe for donors and staff. Learn about the COVID-19 safety precautions at Red Cross blood drives. If you work for an American Red Cross Immunohematology Reference Lab (IRL) or Creative Testing Solutions (CTS) you are an “internal” customer. Any other customer is considered “external.” Our easy to use website contains versions of the Directions for Use associated with each in date lot number of product. This saves everyone money by not printing extra paper copies. Some antibody specificities require adsorption with red blood cells to remove unwanted antibodies (eg. Anti-A, Anti-B, Anti-D). During this process some hemolysis occurs, which colors the serum. Depending on the number of adsorptions required, the color may be darker or lighter. The color does not affect the antigen-antibody reaction. Human plasma is composed of many proteins. They are sometimes more visible from one reagent to another. American Red Cross IRLs or CTS order their products directly from DMD via Contact DMD . External customers must order products via our distributor, Hemo Bioscience, Inc. Navigate to the specific page associated with the product. Select the lot number (printed on the product vial); the associated Directions for Use will load as a .pdf file. If this does not work, please contact us at Contact DMD Hemo Bioscience, Inc. offers a more comprehensive product line to make your ordering easier. Directions for Use do not change often; the version is updated when changes are made. The version is located following the text, usually at the bottom right.
No, they are produced from pools of donor antibody plasma, making them polyclonal reagents. Storage requirements are listed on the label and in the Directions for Use. Directions for Use do not change often; the version is updated when changes are made. The version is located following the text, usually at the bottom right. |