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MUSC is number one again for donating blood

by Annie Lovering
American Red Cross
Thanks to all of you, MUSC once again beat out other major sponsors such as Channel 2, College of Charleston and The Citadel in blood donations for 2003. 

The win belongs to the unflagging efforts of donor teams such as the Hematocritters, Bloody Marys, Out for Blood, B Positive, Doing IT for Life, Crit Boosters, PlAtelets, Hemodynamics, HOT Blood and many more. And let’s not forget the contributions of many fine faithful individuals through the years. 

Donors who participate in donating blood during July, August and September receive a gift and will be eligible for a drawing which includes a gift certificate and a lease on an automobile. 

Grand Reopening of the American Red Cross Donor Room Set for Tuesday, July 20
By encouraging its employees and students to donate blood and recently providing the labor, money and space for remodeling the donor room, MUSC  served the Charleston community well. Drop by the donor room on July 20 and see the new renovations, sign up for a future donation, and enjoy the festivities and food.

Blood Donor Appreciation Party in September
A celebration is in the works for September to gratefully thank and formally recognize all MUSC blood donors. Last year’s party was a great success. Look for invitations in August. 

South Carolina Region of the American Red Cross
Have you ever wondered what happens to your blood after it is collected  at schools, churches, work sites, hospitals, and malls? After every collection in Charleston, blood is packed on ice and transported to the main blood center on Rivers Avenue.  From there it is conveyed by van to the central site in Columbia.  Blood sample tubes from each donation are then sent to Charlotte for testing.  Once satisfactory test results are received back in Columbia, the blood is shipped to S.C. hospitals in need of blood products. 

What is blood tested for to help ensure its safety?
HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Syphilis, West Nile Virus, ABO and Rh blood typing

How much and why is blood so urgently needed in South Carolina?
In 2003, our region was unable to collect enough blood to keep up with the demand. As a result, more than 22,000 units were imported into S.C. 

Part of the problem is only 5 percent of eligible people  actually donate.  Some people choose to donate frequently (the maximum of six to seven times a year) and others choose to donate once a year. The Red Cross is always looking for first time donors who will develop a lifetime habit of donating blood.

However much a donor chooses to give, donations are greatly appreciated by those patients whose lives are saved. Every donation can save up to three  lives, as the blood is separated into plasma, red blood cells, and platelets. 

What do the different blood components treat?
Plasma-burns, shock, liver disease and bleeding problems; Platelets-bleeding problems, patients with cancer or leukemia; andRed blood cells-anemia, blood loss in accidents or surgery, premature babies.

What is the maximum storage time for blood products?
Whole blood and red blood cells—42 days; Frozen plasma—1 year; Platelets—1 to 5 days; White cells—24 hours

What is the number of units used for different situations?
A few examples are: Liver transplant—20 pints of red blood cells, 20 pints of plasma, 10 pints of platelets; Orthopaedic surgery—two pints of red blood cells; Automobile accident—four-40 pints of red blood cells.

What happens when you give blood and how long does it take to give blood?
There are five steps to giving blood:
1. Reading literature given to you every time you donate  (five minutes).
2. History and predonation screening includes answering questions, having your temperature, pulse and BP taken, and having your hemoglobin checked (10 minutes).
3. Venipuncture. Your arm is prepped and blood is taken by gravity. Everybody donates about a pint of blood (610 grams in 10-15 minutes).
4. Sit, snack, and relax (5-10 minutes).
5. Leave with the satisfaction of having helped your fellow man (a lifetime). 

What can you do to make sure you have a good experience when you donate?
Drink extra water on the day of  donation. This boosts blood volume, makes  blood flow better, and helps you feel fine when you donate. It is just as important to continue to drink extra water after your donation.

Don’t skip meals either before or after donation. 

Donor Eligibility
Most people are eligible to donate, including those with conditions such as: diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, depression/anxiety disorders, and GERD. If in doubt, call the donor room at 792-0219 and press 2. Confidentiality is ensured.

Red Cross Donor Room
Every two seconds, somewhere in the United States someone receives blood. If you have never donated blood, and are afraid to give, try coming for the first donation with a veteran donor. 

Or if you have any questions you want answered before you make a commitment to donate, call the Red Cross Donor Room. 

Please take the time to call and make an appointment by calling 792-0219. Walk-ins are also welcome. 

Donor room hours are: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesdays; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursdays.
 

Friday, July 16, 2004
Catalyst Online is published weekly, updated as needed and improved from time to time by the MUSC Office of Public Relations for the faculty, employees and students of the Medical University of South Carolina. Catalyst Online editor, Kim Draughn, can be reached at 792-4107 or by email, catalyst@musc.edu. Editorial copy can be submitted to Catalyst Online and to The Catalyst in print by fax, 792-6723, or by email to petersnd@musc.edu or catalyst@musc.edu. To place an ad in The Catalyst hardcopy, call Community Press at 849-1778.