The American Red Cross platelet supply is critically low. The need for platelets never takes a vacation. Even though donors may be away, patients still need generous individuals to take a break from their summer routine to
donate platelets.
Call the American Red Cross at 271-2589 to make a platelet donation appointment. Donors are especially needed today and Saturday in order to make sure platelets will be available this weekend and early next week.
Apheresis — the process of donating platelets — enables the Red Cross blood centers to remove platelets while returning the other blood components to the donor. The process is similar to giving whole blood and is just as safe. Almost 400 apheresis donations are needed weekly to meet the needs of 93 area hospitals.
Why become a platelet or plasma donor?
With new treatments and procedures, the demand for platelets has grown dramatically. Many patients need daily platelet transfusions and could suffer life-threatening hemorrhages without them. Platelets have a shelf-life of only five days, so donors are needed on a steady basis to meet the needs of area patients.
What are platelets? How are they used?
Platelets are one of the blood components that control bleeding. People with cancer and leukemia need platelets after chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Marrow and organ transplant patients also rely on platelets. About 40 percent of the patients who receive platelets are under age 20.
What is plasma? How is it used?
Plasma is the fluid portion of your blood and is composed of vital proteins, clotting factors and water. It is used to treat liver transplant patients, burn and accident victims and patients with bleeding disorders and other diseases.
What is the apheresis process? How does it work?
The apheresis process allows collection of only one part of your blood at a time. Donors relax in a comfortable chair while their blood is circulated through sterile tubing in a separating machine. The platelets or plasma are transferred to a special bag, while the other blood components are returned to the donor. Similar to giving whole blood, the process is very safe and your body replaces the donated platelets or plasma within 24 hours.
How long does it take?
Platelet donation usually takes about two hours. Plasma donation takes about hour. Although platelets and plasma can be separated from a donation of whole blood, the apheresis process collects must more of a specific component at one time.