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.
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