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Can a 17 year old donate blood without the permission of the parents?

Can a 17 year old donate blood without the permission of the parents?

Q: Can a 17 year old donate blood without parental consent?

Yes, in Iowa, a 17-year-old can donate blood without parental consent. According to Iowa Code § 599.6, individuals aged 17 and older can consent to donate blood voluntarily without needing permission from a parent or guardian. However, those who are 16 must have written consent from a parent or guardian.

Full question:

I am a minor (17 year old) and live with my parents in Iowa. My friend’s dad has organized a camp for voluntary donation of blood. I wish to go there and donate blood. Can I do so without informing my parents, as I know they will never agree to this?

Category: Minors
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Iowa

Answer:

In Iowa, a person who is seventeen years of age or older may not be required to take parents’ consent for donating blood. The relevant statutory section in this regard is stated below

Iowa Code § 599.6 states:

“1. A person who is seventeen years of age or older may consent to donate blood in a voluntary and noncompensatory blood program without the permission of a parent or guardian. The consent is not subject to later disaffirmance because of minority.
2. A person who is sixteen years of age may donate blood in a voluntary and noncompensatory blood program if the person obtains written permission from the person's parent or guardian.”

Therefore, as you are 17 years of age, you may donate blood without the consent of your parents.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What denies you from giving blood?

Several factors can deny you from donating blood, including certain medical conditions, recent surgeries, or travel to areas with infectious diseases. Additionally, if you have engaged in high-risk behaviors, such as drug use or unprotected sex, you may be disqualified. Blood donation centers also have age and weight requirements. Always check with the donation center for specific criteria.

What exempts you from donating blood?

You may be exempt from donating blood if you have specific medical conditions, are currently ill, or have recently received certain vaccinations. Additionally, if you are underweight or do not meet the minimum age requirement, you will be exempt. Each blood donation organization has its own guidelines, so it's best to consult them directly.

What excludes a person from donating blood?

A person may be excluded from donating blood due to various reasons, such as having a chronic illness, recent exposure to infectious diseases, or specific lifestyle choices that pose a risk. Additionally, individuals who have traveled to certain countries or have received certain medical treatments may also be excluded. Always check the eligibility criteria with the donation center.

What will disqualify you from donating blood?

Disqualifications for blood donation can include having certain medical conditions, recent surgeries, or engaging in high-risk behaviors. Additionally, if you are taking specific medications or have traveled to areas with outbreaks of diseases, you may be disqualified. It's essential to review the eligibility requirements of the blood donation organization.

What are the reasons you cannot donate blood?

Reasons for being unable to donate blood include medical conditions such as anemia, recent surgeries, or infections. Lifestyle factors, such as drug use or risky sexual behavior, can also be disqualifying. Additionally, age and weight restrictions apply. Always consult with the blood donation center for their specific eligibility criteria.