The importance of donating blood

Each month, approximately 1,100 units of blood are needed to support local patients in the Baylor Scott & White Health system.

By becoming a regular blood donor with Baylor Scott & White Blood Center, you can touch the lives of countless individuals within your community during their time of need!

Lifesaving blood donations needed

As the only designated Level 1 Trauma Center between Dallas and Austin, Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Temple needs your donations to the Baylor Scott & White Blood Center. Your blood donation allows for better access to an immediate blood supply in traumatic or crisis situations.

What to know before you donate

Please review these commonly asked questions.

Donor eligibility requirements

General and physical

To donate, you must:

  • Be at least 17 years old (there is no maximum age limit)
  • Have a form of picture identification such as a driver's license or an employee badge
  • Eat a good meal and drink plenty of water prior to donation

You should also be in general good health and feel well the day of your donation. Your vitals must meet the following guidelines at the time of your donation:

  • Blood Pressure—systolic blood pressure must be less than 180 and greater than 90; diastolic blood pressure must be less than 100 and greater than 50
  • Temperature—less than 99.5 F
  • Hemoglobin—at least 12.5% for women and at least 13% for men
  • Pulse—regular and 50 to 100 bpm
  • Weight—between 110 to 350 pounds

Medical

During the private medical history interview, we will ask you several personal questions related to your health and history. Your accurate answers are vital to your own safety and that of the patients receiving the blood products.

Travel

Some transfusion-transmissible infections (such as malaria) can be associated with travel or residency in certain areas. During your interview, we will ask you about international travel (including cruises) within the last three years, and all military-related travel.

Please have the following information ready when you call or come by to donate:

  • The name of the country to which you traveled
  • The name of the cities and various local attractions you toured
  • Your travel dates, including when you departed and returned to the USA