Frequently Asked Questions

Who can donate blood?

Anyone 17 years of age or older, in good health, weighing 110 pounds or more who meets our donor eligibility requirements may donate.

How often can I donate?

Every 56 days (8 weeks), or up to six times per year.

Are there any restrictions?

You should not donate if you have a history of hepatitis, cancer in the last five years (except skin cancer), insulin dependent diabetes, chest pain, shortness of breath, or are at high risk for AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). You will temporarily be deferred from donating if you have a sore throat, cold or flu, had dental surgery within 48 hours, have active allergies, or have a low iron count. If you are taking medications, you will not automatically be deferred. Many medications are acceptable. If you have any questions about your ability to donate, talk with one of the Donor Center staff.

Can I get any diseases from donating?

Absolutely not. All needles are sterile, used once and discarded in an appropriate receptacle. The only blood you are exposed to is your own.

How much blood do you take?

Approximately one pint. You have 9 to 12 pints of blood in your body, depending on your size. Blood loss is replaced in 6 to 8 weeks.

Will I find out my blood type if I donate?

Yes. After your first donation you will be sent a donor card with your blood type.

Can I donate to a specific patient?

Miller Children’s Hospital and have a special Directed Donor Program, where patients requiring blood may ask relatives and/or friends to donate specifically for them. These patients must have either a scheduled surgery or a planned transfusion. Arrangements must be made in advance with your physician and the Blood Donor Center. In some instances, arrangements may also be made to transfer Directed Donor units to another hospital.

Can I donate for my surgery?

Yes. This is called an Autologous Donation. It simply means banking your own blood prior to a planned surgery. Arrangements must be made in advance with your physician and the Blood Donor Center. Autologous units may also be transferred to other hospitals.

Can I just donate platelets?

Yes, mention that you want to donate platelets when you make an appointment. When donating platelets, blood is taken from one needle in your arm and goes into a one-time use plastic kit on a cell separator. In the separator, platelets are removed and the rest of your blood is then returned to you.

Should I eat before or after I donate blood?

Please drink plenty of fluids and eat a good meal within four hours before donating. Address the after and add in about having juice and snack before leaving

Where and when can I donate?

The Blood Donor Center at Miller Children’s Hospital is located at 2801 Atlantic Ave. in Long Beach on the first floor (across from the Chapel) and is open Monday through Friday (Tuesday and Thursday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Will Miller Children’s Hospital help me organize my own Blood Drive?

Yes, our Blood Donor Center will help you coordinate and sponsor a blood drive for your church or community organization. If you would like to learn more, call (562) 234-9516.