O negative blood donors can donate to anyone with any blood type. O negative is known as the universal donor because it lacks A, B, and Rh antigens, making it safe for transfusion to all recipients without triggering immune reactions.
Why It's Universal
This blood type is especially vital in emergencies, such as trauma or surgery, where there's no time to test a patient's blood type. Organizations like the Red Cross emphasize its high demand for these scenarios.
Donation Details
Eligible O negative donors are typically healthy individuals aged 17-65 weighing at least 110 pounds, able to donate whole blood every 56 days. A single donation can save up to three lives.
