do donate blood, save lives
In the United States, approximately 39,000 units of blood are needed each day for patients in hospitals and emergency facilities. During the winter months, blood is in short supply because of vacation, travel, weather and disease. January was designated as National Blood Donor month in 1970 to encourage donors to continue to donate blood and platelets in the winter months. According to the American Red Cross, blood can be given safely every 56 days and platelets can be donated every 7 days, up to 24 times per year.
Donating blood is an easy and almost painless way to save lives. The whole process takes about an hour of your time. When we come to donate blood, the staff will ask you some basic questions to confirm your eligibility to donate blood. You will have a mini-physical to make sure you are in good health and ask you about your medical history and travel. The actual blood donation takes 8-10 minutes and you sit comfortably throughout the process. After the donation, refreshments are usually provided. It is recommended to stay on the site for 10-15 minutes before returning to your normal daily activities. Take time this January to celebrate the National Month of blood donors by visiting your local blood bank!
Did you know?
- Every 2 seconds someone in the US is in need of blood.
- More than 41,000 blood donations are needed every day.
- The average adult has 10 pints of blood in their body. About 1 pint is given during donation.
- A donation can help save the lives of 3 people.
- Not eligible to donate? There are other ways to help! Visit the American Red Cross to learn how
Tips for a successful donation
- Maintaining a healthy level of iron in your diet
- Hydrate -. . Drink. 16 additional ounces of fluids before and after your donation
- Having a healthy meal before your donation -. avoid foods high in fat just before donation
- If you are a platelet donor, remember that your system must be free of aspirin for two days prior to donation.
- Bring the names of the drugs you take.
- Invite a friend to donate too.
- Please bring your ID
Source: American Red Cross
Sources: American Red Cross, the American Association of Blood Banks, LifeWork strategies and Adventist HealthCare. The Health Council of the week is for educational purposes. For medical advice, consult your doctor. Feel free to copy and distribute this health resource.
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