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Double Red Cell Donation

When you make a double red cell donation, you give two units of red blood cells in one appointment. Your fluids, plasma, and platelets are returned to your body. In two donations, you give the same number of life-saving red cells as you would during four whole blood donations. 

You can donate double red cells at any of our donor centers, and at most community blood drives.

Blood types most needed: O+, O-, A-, B- 

Type O donors are especially needed for double red cell donation, especially O- donors. Type O- donors are universal red cell donors, meaning their red cells can be given to anyone in need.

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Additional eligiblity requirements for double red cell donors:
In addition to general eligibility requirements, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has established minimum height and weight requirements for double red cell donors:

Gender

Min. Weight 

Min. Height 

Males 

130 lbs. 

5' 1" 

Females

150 lbs. 

5' 5"





Double Red Cell Donation FAQ

  • Why donate double red cells?

    In one double red donation, you give twice the amount of red cells in a whole blood donation. Red cells often mean the difference between life and death for premature babies, transplant recipients, accident victims, and many more patients in need. Red cells are transfused more often than any other part of blood.

  • Am I eligible?

    In addition to general donor eligibility requirements (such as age, weight, and health status), double red donors must meet minimum height and weight requirements established by the FDA:

    Gender

    Min. Weight 

    Min. Height 

    Males 

    130 lbs. 

    5' 1" 

    Females

    150 lbs. 

    5' 5" 







    Blood types O+, O-, A-, and B- are especially needed for double red donation.

  • How long does a double red donation take?

    From check-in to cookies, double red donation typically takes about 80 minutes. The time spent actually donating is 30 minutes or less.

  • How often can I donate double red cells?

    Double red cells can be donated every 112 days. Nebraska Community Blood Bank recommends donating double red cells every 6 months (twice per year).

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