Concerns about donating blood are common. Here are some commonly asked questions about donating blood. Below are some answers to these commonly asked questions that can make the difference between a doubter and a donor...


I'm afraid to give blood. I'm afraid of needles.

Many people are nervous about donating blood. Even regular donors get nervous. But giving blood saves lives. And it is not painful--it feels like a pinch. Red Cross nurses are trained to understand and help you through your nervousness. Let your nurse know how you feel, so he or she can help you relax.

I'm afraid I'll get AIDS.

That is impossible. All needles used to collect blood are sterile and used only one time. Needles are destroyed after each donation. You are not exposed to anyone else's blood, so you cannot get AIDS by donating blood.

I'm on medication.

What kind? Most medications, including those for high blood pressure, are not cause for permanent deferral. Give us a call to discuss it or come to the bloodmobile and check with one of the Red Cross nurses to be sure.

I already gave this year.

Please donate again. You are eligible to donate whole blood every 56 days, plasma every 28 days and platelets every 14 days. The need for blood components is continuous.

They wouldn't want my blood because of the illness I've had.

Are you sure? Hepatitis, HIV/AIDS and some forms of cancer or heart disease are reasons for permanent deferral, but other illnesses may require only a waiting period before a donation is allowed. Call us or visit a bloodmobile and we'll discuss when you'll be eligible to donate.

I think I'm anemic.

Let's check and find out. A sample of your blood is tested before each donation. If your red cell count is too low, you will probably be temporarily deferred for your own protection. But this does not mean you can never donate again. Ask a Red Cross nurse for more information.

I'm too busy.

We wish every community and company could have a bloodmobile at the most convenient time to ensure the most donors. The fact is, red blood cells can be stored for only 42 days and platelets for only five days. Therefore, we must repeat our bloodmobile schedule and sometimes visit your area during busy times. We must plan the bloodmobile schedule to make sure we collect enough blood every day of every week.

I'm just an "O" blood type. You probably already have many donors of that blood type.

Yes, but many patients also have that type. Nearly 50 percent of the blood transfused in this area is type "O" blood. All blood types are needed, particularly type "O."

I've been turned down as a donor before.

Most deferrals are temporary, not permanent. Check again to find out if you can now donate. A mini-physical is given to all potential blood donors to ensure they are healthy enough to donate.

I'll wait until someone really needs it.

If people wait for an emergency, it may be too late. Every two seconds, someone needs blood. An ample supply must be on the shelf when needed. In our area, Red Cross must collect more than 2,200 units each week to meet the need for blood and help support the nationwide Red Cross blood system.