Blood Donor Program

Mercy Hospital St. Louis Blood Donation Program

Every day, people of all ages and walks of life unexpectedly need blood. They could be accident victims, cancer patients or tiny babies in the NICU. When you give blood or platelets, you're giving someone the precious gift of life.

Mercy is the only hospital in the entire state of Missouri that performs blood drives outside of the hospital. Your decision to donate blood at Mercy could save someone's child, friend or loved one. 

St. Louis Blood Donor Services

Mercy offers whole blood collection at Mercy Hospital St. Louis and through mobile blood drives throughout the St. Louis area. In addition, we offer autologous (blood donations for the donor's own use) and directed blood collection and apheresis platelet collection at our hospital.

Please call 314-251-4483 (1-866-373-6667) to make an appointment or sign up online. Our hours of operation vary. 

Before you register to be a blood donor, please read the Pre-donation Packet, which contains information about blood donor eligibility.
 

When you arrive to give blood, you'll be asked to show a valid photo ID, such as a driver's license. Please make sure to have one with you. 


We'll also ask for your complete address, including PO Box or street/apartment number. This should be the place you expect to receive mail for up to eight weeks following your donation.  

  • Blood donor screening is private and confidential
  • You must be 17 years of age, weigh at least 115 lbs. and be healthy*
  • Be prepared to answer questions about your health history and any places you have recently traveled
  • Your temperature, blood pressure and pulse will be taken
  • We'll also perform a simple finger stick to check your hemoglobin levels


*16-year-old donors are eligible but must bring a signed parental consent form, signed in ink. To complete this consent form,
click here.  

So you know what to expect, a typical blood donation process will follow these steps:

  • You’ll arrive and be seated comfortably in a recliner chair
  • A tourniquet will be applied to your arm, making your veins more visible
  • The area immediately around the donation site will be cleaned with an antiseptic
  • A brand-new sterile needle will be inserted to draw blood
  • Blood will be drawn into a collection bag
  • If you're also donating platelets, an apheresis machine will be used to separate your blood into separate components
  • Once the required amount is collected, the needle will be removed immediately from your arm and pressure will be applied
  • A whole blood collection takes 5 to 15 minutes, or 45 to 90 minutes if platelets are donated 
  • You'll be given a snack and drink in a designated refreshment area
  • You'll be asked to stay for 10 to 15 minutes before leaving
  • You'll receive post-donation instructions and contact information for any questions you have afterwards 

Why should I donate blood at Mercy?

At Mercy Hospital St. Louis, we're committed to providing safe and reliable blood donor services to meet growing demand. Our team of trained professionals works to make sure your donation experience is comfortable, convenient and hassle-free.
 

Can I donate blood to a specific family member or friend?

You may also request that your donation be given to a specific patient. Read our Directed Donations Fact Sheet for more information. You'll also need to complete a Directed Donation Request Form.
 

How can I host a blood drive?

It's easy to schedule a blood drive for your school, business, church or group. We'll help you organize the event and bring our mobile technicians to you. To learn more, give us a call at 314-251-4483.
 

What are some common facts about blood?

  • Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs a blood and/or platelet donation
  • 29,000 units of red blood cells are needed every day in the U.S.
  • One car accident victim can require as many as 100 units of blood
  • Type O is the blood type most often requested by hospitals
  • One donation can save more than one life 
Information on services and programs available at Mercy Hospital St. Louis.