Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. However, during winter, the supply drops while the need is still constant. Blood donation is very important for saving lives. The donated blood is used for patients who are undergoing surgeries, patients who have been involved in accidents, patients who have cancer, other blood disorders and women who face problems during delivery.
Winter is a difficult time for blood banks. With harsh weather, illness or the holiday season, many individuals cancel donation appointments. However, emergencies, surgeries or hospitalizations continue to increase. Blood Donor Awareness Month is a time that raises awareness about the gap that exists between supply and demand during this period. This month is also used to educate others on the process of donations. Many people have been reluctant to donate due to fear or some misconception, but the process of blood donation is completely safe.
The importance of Awareness Month is further increased in a show of respect for the contributions and loyalty shown by the regular volunteers who frequently donate blood. These people play an important role in ensuring that a consistent blood supply is available throughout the healthcare industry.
When speaking with Ranjita Khadka, a blood donor, she said, “Donating blood has always been a positive act and is a rewarding experience which we know could save someone’s life.”
The entire process of donating usually takes about an hour. According to the Red Cross Blood organization, the process of donating blood starts with registration through valid ID, personal information and undergoing basic health checks such as temperature, pulse, blood pressure and hemoglobin, and reviewing health history, medication and disease risk. After all of the necessary steps are taken, a sterile needle is used to collect blood. Whole blood would take about ten minutes, plasma about 45 minutes and platelets about two hours for withdrawal. Afterward, bandage and care instruction is provided. Then, donors rest for about fifteen minutes with some snacks and drinks and resume their normal activities.
Sharing her tips for donating blood, Khadka said, “Proper nutrition and fluids are necessary as it reduces the chances of feeling unwell after donating the blood”
January’s Blood Donor Awareness Month is a time to be reminded of how simple the act of blood donation can be while having a huge effect. Blood donation and promoting blood donation can be the easiest means of having a positive effect on world health that people can achieve.
