Blood Donation Types

At Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset, blood donors have the option to donate in several ways:

• General blood donation can be used by any patient at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset.
• Automated Donation (also known as apheresis) is a special type of blood donation that allows a donor to give multiple blood components, such as red blood cells, platelets or plasma. During the procedure, all but the needed blood components are returned to the donor.
• Replacement Donations restore units already used by a specific individual. This type of donation ensures an adequate supply of blood for other patients. Replacement donors do not have to have the same blood type as the patient.
• Autologous Donations offer patients the option of donating their own blood in anticipation of receiving blood during scheduled surgeries. With coordination of a physician, a patient may give up to four units of blood with in 35 days of the anticipated surgery. Patients must have a prescription sent or faxed to the Donor Room from their physician prior to donating. Prescriptions may be to faxed to 908-231-6166.
• Designated Donations allow loved ones to donate blood specifically for use by patients who are in need of a blood transfusion. This type of donation must be made at least seven days prior to the scheduled surgery or anticipated transfusion, and is coordinated by the patient's physician. The donor must meet blood compatibility requirements.