Blood donation

Have you ever donated blood? Did you know that if you're 17 and weigh at least 110 lbs, you can donate? It's that simple!

The entire process takes about an hour. When you're done you get to sit and enjoy a snack and some juice or water.

There are several types of donations available but the most common, whole blood, takes a pint of blood. You're eligible to donate a pint of blood every 56 days. Believe me, once you're on the registry, they'll call you! 

There are two other processes; platelet apheresis and plasma apheresis. Both of these are longer, about 2-3 hours, and some of your "blood" is returned back to you! These allow specific blood components to be extracted for donation while the other products of blood are returned back into you via another IV in the other arm.

The most requested blood is O-, the universal donor. Anyone can receive blood from an O- donor. Especially during times of crisis (9-11, hurricanes, earthquakes), blood is needed. One pint of whole blood is just that; one unit and all given to one patient. One unit of plasma or platelets can help multiple people. All are extremely valuable and important.

Besides helping your fellow man, another great component of blood donation is a mini-physical! They check your vitals and keep record. They are able to notice trends in your blood pressure and weight, both of which you may not be aware! Finally, I had one patient bring me lab results from the Red Cross stating they had done extensive blood testing and found a genetic marker for a specific disease. He was following up with me for additional testing. Had he not donated he may never have known he was at increased risk!

What are you waiting for? Go donate today!