Donating Blood

NWH hosts weekly blood drives most Monday's from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
Parking is free for donors.

In addition, NWH sponsors four major Employee Community blood drives each year in conjunction with Hudson Valley Blood Services.

NWH transfuses almost 3,000 units of blood each year to our trauma victims, cancer or surgery patients, newborns, or other patients in need. There is no substitute for human blood! It truly is the gift of life.

Blood donation is a vital part of our community’s health, and has the potential to save many people with life threatening illnesses. Your donation will provide life-sustaining blood for patients in need.

The Blood Donation Process

The whole process takes about 30-40 minutes, and can serve as a very relaxing break in your busy day. Donating blood is a wonderful gift for the recipient and their loved ones, and it’s really quite easy…

Step 1: When you arrive, you will complete a questionnaire, including a short medical history.

Step 2: You will get a check of your blood pressure, temperature, and hemoglobin level.

Step 3: The actual donation, which takes about 10-15 minutes. You can relax, chat with fellow donors, or watch TV during the donation.

Step 4: After completion, you will rest a few moments and then be treated to an assortment of beverages and snacks.

Remember, both before and after donation, eat meals at regular times and drink plenty of fluids.

Blood Donor Requirements

It takes a special person to be a donor:

• Must be at least 16 years old (with parental consent), and weigh at least 110 lbs.
• People 76 yrs and older can donate if they meet all the criteria and have a note from their physician.
• You can donate blood every 56 days.
• There are some conditions or medications that may keep you from being able to donate. The technicians will be able to explain these to you and answer your questions.

For more information, please call Betty Wilson at 914.666.1032.