By James Porterfield, RN

Giving blood is a generous act that saves lives. Donated blood is used for surgeries, trauma care and treating diseases. The impact extends beyond immediate medical benefits — it fosters community spirit, supports medical advancements and transforms lives.

The American Red Cross supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood and hosts approximately 500 blood drives each day to help patients. Donors are critically important to meeting the constant need for blood.

People can make different types of blood donations, and in hospitals, these products serve multiple purposes.

• Whole blood is what most people think of when they hear “blood donation.” It’s the most common and most flexible type of donation because it can be transfused in its original form or used to help multiple people when separated into its specific components.
• During a Power Red donation, red blood cells are separated from other blood components, and the plasma and platelets are safely and comfortably returned to the donor. Red cells from a Power Red donation are typically given to trauma patients, newborns, women who need emergency transfusions when giving birth, people with sickle cell anemia and anyone suffering blood loss.
• Platelets play a critical role in the treatment of millions of Americans fighting cancer, chronic diseases and traumatic injuries. Every 30 seconds, someone needs platelets. Low platelet count is a major side effect of cancer treatment. Some types of chemotherapy can damage bone marrow, reducing platelet production. Other times, the cancer itself causes the problem. Leukemia and lymphoma can invade bone marrow and prevent the patient’s body from producing platelets.
• Plasma is a part of whole blood and can also be collected simultaneously with a platelet donation or through an AB Elite plasma-only donation at select Red Cross blood donation centers. Plasma is collected through an automated process that separates plasma from other blood components, then safely and comfortably returns red blood cells and platelets to the donor. Type AB plasma can be given to patients of any blood type and is often used in emergency situations to help stop bleeding.

Before donation, you'll complete a questionnaire and undergo a brief examination to ensure eligibility. Once approved, about a pint of blood is collected using sterile equipment. Each donation receives a unique identification number for tracking throughout testing and storage. Here’s what to expect while donating blood:

Eligibility: Donors must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent in some places), weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in good health.

Preparation: Get at least eight hours of sleep the night before, eat a healthy breakfast or lunch, and drink extra water. Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that can be rolled up above your elbows.

Registration: You provide basic information and medical history.

Health Screening: A brief health assessment ensures you're eligible to donate.

Donation: A needle is inserted into a vein, usually in your arm, and blood is collected. The process takes about 10–15 minutes.

Recovery: After donating, you'll rest and enjoy refreshments to replenish your energy.

Benefits: Donating blood helps those in need during surgeries, cancer treatments, trauma care, and more. It also has health benefits for the donor, such as improved cardiovascular health.

Safety: Blood donation is safe, with strict protocols to ensure the well-being of both donors and recipients.

Frequency: Whole blood donors can typically donate every 56 days, while platelet and plasma donations can be done more frequently.

Your donated blood undergoes initial testing. This includes ABO typing to determine blood type (A, B, AB, O) and Rh factor (+ or -) for recipient compatibility. Serological testing screens for infectious diseases including HIV, Hepatitis B and C, Syphilis, West Nile Virus, Zika Virus, and other pathogens.

At the blood bank, donations undergo rigorous processing to ensure safety and compatibility for transfusion. Strict quality control standards govern the entire process, including storage conditions and equipment monitoring. Blood products are stored under specific conditions (refrigerated or frozen) to maintain viability. The blood bank maintains detailed records of testing results and distribution for complete traceability.

Each year, millions of patients require blood transfusions for medical emergencies, surgeries, or chronic illnesses. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that blood transfusions are essential for about 80 million operations and medical treatments worldwide. A single donation can save multiple lives, underscoring the vital need for a stable blood supply. Since blood cannot be manufactured—it must come from donors—blood donation is essential for effective healthcare.

Blood donation exemplifies human compassion and our collective commitment to health. By addressing common misconceptions and spreading awareness, we can inspire more people to participate in this lifesaving act. Every donation helps ensure that patients receive the care they need, creating a healthier, more compassionate world.

If you’re ready to give blood, visit RedCrossBlood.org to find a blood drive or donor center near you and to schedule an appointment.