What is replacement blood donation?

Replacement blood donation, also called directed donation or designated donation, involves donating blood or blood products for someone who needs them, usually a member of your family or a member of your circle of friends.

Like regular whole blood donation, replacement blood donation involves giving blood to the blood bank, which then reserves it for a specific person's use and labels the blood with that person's name.

Why consider donation for a specific person?

Some people believe it's important for a loved one to receive blood from someone they know, such as a relative or close friend. Others are encouraged to donate for friends or relatives for religious reasons. In a few instances, doctors recommend patients receive blood only from pre-selected friends and family members if the patient has multiple antibodies.

But replacement donation is not better or safer than accepting blood from any donor.

If you're planning to donate blood for someone special

Be aware that although your wish is important, medical professionals decide whether your blood is suitable to meet the specific needs of the intended patient. The donated blood must meet all requirements for safety and compatibility.

Also, blood that's specifically targeted for a particular patient is still processed by the blood bank. The labeled unit remains in the blood bank until the specific recipient needs the blood. The designated unit doesn't accompany you to the recipient's bedside in the hospital.