An autologous blood donation is a process where you can give blood for yourself to be used during a scheduled surgical procedure.

• Your own blood is the safest blood for transfusion. It decreases the incidence of reactions and infections

• An autologous donation must be prescribed by a physician. Your surgeon must send a written request to the Blood Center�s Special Donor Services Department.�

• Certain underlying medical conditions may require documentation from your primary care physician. This will be determined when you call for your appointment.

• Your hemoglobin (iron level) must be 11.0 or higher to donate blood for yourself. It is recommended that an iron supplement be prescribed by your physician prior to participation in the program to prevent a mild anemia.

• The average man has 10 to 12 pints of blood in his body. The average woman has 8 to 10 pints of blood in her body.

• Autologous blood donations may be made a week apart and not less than 72 hours before a scheduled surgery.