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Red Blood Cells:
The main function of the red blood
cells is to carry oxygen from the lungs to the body’s cells and
to bring the waste product (carbon dioxide) back to the lungs, where
it is exhaled. They are used in most transfusions today, but can
be stored for only 42 days. One way Heartland collects red cells
is through a new technology called apheresis. This process separates
red cells and plasma while your blood is being drawn, unlike whole
blood donations where blood components are separated later in the
process. To find out more about red cell apheresis, click
here.
Platelets:
The main function of the platelets
is to help the blood coagulate or clot so as to aid in stopping
bleeding. Platelets are living cell fragments that are very sticky,
enabling them to adhere to other platelets as well as to the inner
surface of small blood vessels. They must be stored in constant
motion, and can be stored for only 5 days. Volunteer donors may
choose to participate in Heartland Blood Centers Platelet Donation
program. Platetlets can be collected using a technology called apheresis,
which is a procedure that separates blood into specific components.
For more information on Platelet Donation, click
here.
Plasma:
Plasma makes up about 55% of the volume of
your blood. It is the fluid in which living cells are suspended
and transported. It is the carrier of minerals and hormones, and
is essential to normal body development. It also carries various
waste products to the kidneys for excretion.
Who Benefits From Blood Donation?
At Heartland Blood Centers, we never forget
the patients who receive the blood we collect. Every unit of blood
is collected from volunteer donors who meet specific criteria and
have been screened according to strict guidelines. Every unit (pint)
is collected, transported, tested and stored according to tightly-controlled
procedures. Examples of transfusion needs are:
| Cancer |
up to 8 units/month |
| Bone Marrow Transplant |
up to 2 unit/day |
| Liver Transplant |
up to 100 units |
| Auto Accident/Gunshot Wound |
up to 50 units |
| Cardiovascular Surgery |
2-25 units |
- More than 95% of Americans reaching age 72 will
need blood (or one of the products that can be derived by blood)
in their lifetime.
- About 75% of all people over the age of 30 have
at least one personal acquaintance who has had a blood transfusion.
- Blood is a fragile substance. It is a liquid,
living tissue that must be used within 42 days (5 days for platelets)
of the time it is donated.
If you are interested in donating or hosting a
blood drive, please contact us at 1-800-7 TO-GIVE or email us at
heartlan1@heartlandbc.org
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