As a prospective donor you must bring some form of identification in order to register. Then you complete a health history questionnaire concerning your medical history, lifestyle and risk of exposure to infectious agents. Your answers to these questions will help us determine whether or not you are an eligible donor.

If you meet the requirements for donating blood, you will then go through a screening process. At this time a technician will take important vital signs, such as, pulse, temperature, blood pressure and iron-level check. This initial screening process and physical exam takes approximately 30 minutes.

After you have passed the screening and medical exam, a technician directs you to the donor area where you sit in a comfortable position. A technician will swab your arm inside the elbow (to prevent infection) and insert a needle into a vein. The needle is attached to a sterile plastic bag.

After the donation, the needle is removed and a sterile bandage is put on your arm. You can then enjoy some refreshments.

For more information about specific types of donations, visit the Types of Donations page.