About Blood

THE NEED FOR BLOOD

As a blood donor, you are a lifeline to those patients who need blood transfusions. According to America’s Blood Centers:

• Blood is needed every two seconds.
• About 1 in 7 people entering a hospital need blood.
• Blood is always needed for treatment of accident victims, cancer patients, hemophiliacs and surgery patients.
• Blood cannot be manufactured or harvested.

In about one hour of your time, you can help give a lifetime to patients.  Schedule your appointment here.

BLOOD

Blood – everybody has it; everybody needs it. This red liquid carries oxygen and nutrients to all parts of the body, and carries carbon dioxide and other waste products back to the lungs, kidneys and liver for disposal. Blood fights against infection and helps heal wounds, so we can stay healthy.

Red cells are produced in your bone marrow, especially in your vertebrae, ribs, hips, skull and sternum. These cells carry oxygen and remove carbon dioxide. They are disc-shaped cells containing hemoglobin, which enables the cells to pick up and deliver oxygen to all parts of the body. Some examples of patient need for red cells include surgery, trauma, sickle cell disease, cancer, and severe anemia.

Plasma is a pale yellow mixture of water, proteins and salts. One of plasma’s functions is acting as a carrier for blood cells, nutrients, enzymes and hormones. Burn and trauma patients often need plasma to replace fluid loss. Plasma is also used in the treatment of patients with clotting deficiencies.

Platelets are small cell fragments in the blood that help control bleeding. They form clusters to plug small holes in blood vessels and assist in the clotting process. Platelets are used in the treatment of conditions such as leukemia and aplastic anemia. They are also used in the treatment of transplant and chemotherapy patients.

Each blood component plays a vital role in your health – and that of the patients you help with your blood donations.

BLOOD SAFETY

Blood donation is safe and simple. You cannot get AIDS or any infectious disease from donating blood. A disposable, sterile needle and supplies are used to collect your blood.

HISTORY OF BLOOD

Humans have been fascinated with the mysteries of blood probably since the dawn of man.  Learn the history of blood and other interesting facts.