Donate Double Red Cells
What are double red cells? Whole blood is made up of three basic components; red cells, plasma, and platelets. Double red cells are two units of only red cells.
How are double red cells collected? Through a single sterile needle some of your whole blood is removed and passed through a cell separator. The whole blood is separated into red bloods cells and plasma/platelets. The red cells are then drawn into collection bags while the cell separator returns the plasma/platelet product and saline solution to the donor. The saline solution provides volume replacement to replace the volume of blood lost by the donor.
Am I eligible to donate double red cells?
QUALIFICATIONS | FEMALES | MALES |
Minimum height |
5'5" | 5'1" |
Minimum weight | 150 lbs | 130 lbs |
Iron level | 40% or 13.3 |
Why donate double red cells?
- For approximately 45 minutes you are able to donate 2 products in 1 visit.
- Better product for the patient as it reduces patient transfusion risk by reducing the number of donor exposures.
- 112-day deferral time between donations results in fewer phone calls and/or emails asking you to donate: longer deferral time between donations means fewer trips to the Blood Donor Center saving you time and gas.
- Lower total blood volume loss because you receive plasma/platelet and saline solution back. You leave more hydrated!
- Smaller needle.
How do I prepare? On the day of donation:
- Make sure you are well hydrated.
- Make sure you eat a meal prior to donating.
- Bring a photo ID with you.