GIVE BLOOD How to donate blood? Preparation before donating blood 1. Have enough rest and sleep. 2.

No alcohol intake 24 hours prior to blood donation. 3. No medications for at least 24 hours prior to blood donation. 4. Have something to eat prior to blood donation, avoid fatty food. 5. Drink plenty of fluid, like water or juice. Steps in donating blood 1. Have your weight taken. 2. Register and honestly and complete the donor registration form. 3. Have your blood type and hemoglobin checked. 4. A physician will conduct a blood donor examination. 5. Actual donation--the amount of blood to be donated (either 350cc or 450cc) will depend on the donor's weight and blood pressure. It usually takes 10 minutes or less. 6. A 5 to 10 minute rest and plenty of fluid-intake are necessary after donation. What to do after blood donation? 1. Drink plenty of fluid, like water or juice. 2. Refrain from stooping down after blood donation. 3. Refrain from strenuous activities like: a. Lifting heavy objects; b. Driving big vehicles such as bus, trucks, etc.; or c. Operating big machines. 4. Avoid using the punctured arm in lifting heavy objects. 5. Apply pressure on the punctured site and lift the arm in case the site is still bleeding. 6. If there is discoloration and swelling on the punctured site, you may apply cold compress for 24 hours. 7. If there is dizziness, just lie down with your feet elevated. Drink plenty of juice; and in just a few minutes or so, it will pass. Blood Donation: Basic Requirements Blood donation helps save lives. Find out if you're eligible to donate blood and what to expect if you decide to donate. The need for blood is great. On any given day, more than two thousand of blood units are transfused to patients in our country. Some may need blood during surgery; while others depend on it after an accident or because they have a disease that requires blood components. The

Philippine Red Cross approximately supplies one-fourth of the country's national blood requirements. If you're in good health, you can probably donate. Find out about blood donation and what to expect if you decide to give. Who can donate blood? You can donate blood if you - Are in good health - Are between 16 to 65 years old (16 and 17 years old need parents consent); - Weigh at least 110 pounds; - Have a blood pressure between: Systolic: 90-160 mmHg, Diastolic: 60-100 mmHg; and - Pass the physical and health history assessments. PRC Blood Services Facilities carefully screen potential donors. The screening guidelines are necessary to ensure that blood donation is safe for you and that it is safe for the person who will be receiving your blood. In the screening process, you have to fill out a blood donation questionnaire form that includes direct questions about behaviors known to carry a higher risk of blood-borne infections infections that are transmitted through the blood. These behaviors include prostitution, intravenous drug use and others. A trained physician will be asking you about your medical/ health history, and a physical examination will be conductedwhich includes checking your blood pressure, pulse and temperature. All of the information from this evaluation is kept strictly confidential. During your blood donation screening procedure, a small sample of blood taken from a finger prick is used to check your hemoglobin level, the oxygen-carrying component of your blood. If your hemoglobin concentration is normal, and you've met all the other screening requirements, you can donate blood. Where can I donate blood? Use the PRC Blood Services Facility Directory to find the blood donation center nearest you, and then contact the blood center to find out more about the requirements.

Four main red blood cell types: A, B, AB and O. Each can be positive or negative for the Rh factor. AB is the universal recipient; O negative is the universal donor of red blood cells. Dr. Karl Landsteiner first identified the major human blood groups A, B, AB and O in 1901.

 One unit of blood can be separated into several components: red blood cells, plasma, platelets and cryoprecipitate. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body's organs and tissues. Red blood cells live about 120 days in the circulatory system. Platelets promote blood clotting and give those with leukemia and other cancers a chance to live. Plasma is a pale yellow mixture of water, proteins and salts. Plasma, which is 90 percent water, makes up 55 percent of blood volume. Healthy bone marrow makes a constant supply of red cells, plasma and platelets. Blood or plasma that comes from people who have been paid for it cannot be used to human transfusion. Granulocytes, a type of white blood cell, roll along blood vessel walls in search of bacteria to engulf and destroy. White cells are the body's primary defense against infection. Apheresis is a special kind of blood donation that allows a donor to give specific blood components, such as platelets. Forty-two days: how long most donated red blood cells can be stored. Five days: how long most donated platelets can be stored. One year: how long frozen plasma can be stored. Much of today's medical care depends on a steady supply of blood from healthy donors. 3 pints: the average whole blood and red blood cell transfusion.* Children being treated for cancer, premature infants and children having heart surgery need blood and platelets from donors of all types, especially type O. Anemic patients need blood transfusions to increase their red blood cell levels. Cancer, transplant and trauma patients, and patients undergoing open-heart surgery may require platelet transfusions to survive. Sickle cell disease is an inherited disease that affects more than 80,000 people in the United States, 98 percent of whom are of African descent. Many patients with severe sickle cell disease receive blood transfusions every month. A patient could be forced to pass up a lifesaving organ, if compatible blood is not available to support the transplant. Thirteen tests (11 for infectious diseases) are performed on each unit of donated blood. 17 percent of non-donors cite "never thought about it" as the main reason for not giving, while 15 percent say they're too busy. The #1 reason blood donors say they give is because they "want to help others." Shortages of all blood types happen during the summer and winter holidays. Blood centers often run short of types O and B red blood cells. The rarest blood type is the one not on the shelf when it's needed by a patient. There is no substitute for human blood. If all blood donors gave three times a year, blood shortages would be a rare event (The current average is about two.). If only one more percent of all Americans would give blood, blood shortages would disappear for the foreseeable future. 46.5 gallons: amount of blood you could donate if you begin at age 17 and donate every 56 days until you reach 79 years old. Four easy steps to donate blood: medical history, quick physical, donation and snacks.

 The actual blood donation usually takes about 10 minutes. The entire process from the time you sign in to the time you leave takes about an hour. After donating blood, you replace the fluid in hours and the red blood cells within four weeks. It takes eight weeks to restore the iron lost after donating. You cannot get AIDS or any other infectious disease by donating blood. 10 pints: amount of blood in the body of an average adult. One unit of whole blood is roughly the equivalent of one pint. Blood makes up about 7 percent of your body's weight. A newborn baby has about one cup of blood in his body. Giving blood will not decrease your strength. Any company, community organization, place of worship or individual may contact their local community blood center to host a blood drive. Blood drives hosted by companies, schools, places of worship and civic organizations supply roughly half of all blood donations across the U.S. People who donate blood are volunteers and are not paid for their donation. 500,000: the number of Americans who donated blood in the days following the September 11 attacks. Blood donation. It's about an hour of your time. It's About Life. http://www.americasblood.org/go.cfm?do=page.view&pid=12

Who Needs Donated Blood? Blood donations are used every day for surgery patients, cancer patients, accident victims, bone marrow recipients, burn patients and organ transplant recipients, just to name a few of the beneficiaries.

A heart surgery patient needs up to 6 units of red blood cells and 1 platelet transfusion. A liver transplant recipient needs up to 20 units of red blood cells, 25 units of plasma and 1 platelet transfusion. A cancer patient needs up to 8 platelet transfusions per week. A sickle cell anemia patient needs 2 to 10 units of red blood cells per treatment. A marrow transplant recipient needs up to 20 units of red blood cells and 25 platelet transfusions. A trauma victim May need up to 50 units of red blood cells. Cancer patients account for almost 20 percent of all blood transfusions given. One in seven people will need a blood transfusion sometime in their lifetime. Blood needs to be donated, tested, ready and available for transfusion before it's needed. The Facts About Blood How Much Blood Does Your Body Have?

Blood makes up about 7 percent of a person's weight. An adult body of average weight has between 12 - 14 pints of blood. A 110-pound teenager has around 7 pints of blood. A 40-pound child has around 2 to 3 pints.

One Donation Can Save Several Lives

One pint of blood can be separated into three primary components which can help up to several people in need: o Red Blood Cells - carry oxygen to the body's organs and tissues. These cells are needed for accident victims and surgery patients. They can be refrigerated and stored for only up to 42 days.
o

Plasma - is 90 percent water, makes up 55 percent of blood volume and is needed for organ, burn and shock patients. Plasma can be frozen and stored for up to one year.

Platelets - are an essential factor in blood clotting and give patients with leukemia and other cancers a chance to live. These can be stored at room temperature no longer than 5 days.

All three of these important components that make up a pint of blood are made in the body's bone marrow. About 1 billion red blood cells are found in just 2 to 3 drops of whole blood. For every 600 red blood cells there are approximately 40 platelets and just 1 white cell. Nationally, more men than women donate blood. Locally, more women than men donate! When was the last time you gave blood? The average patient who needs a transfusion uses about 3 pints of blood and blood components.

Replenishment Program - Donate to Help Someone in Need! When a relative or friend becomes ill or is hospitalized, you want to help, and may not know how. You can show how much you care by making a blood donation in their name. Your gift of blood will help the community blood supply to be there when someone else is in need. When you donate blood in the name of a special person, you will be given a greeting card to send to the patient whose blood usage you are replenishing. The card lets the patient know you were thinking of them and donated blood in their name. What's Your Type? There are four blood groups: type O, A, B and AB. There are eight blood types which include: type O positive/O negative, type A positive/A negative, type B positive/B negative and type AB positive/AB negative. Who Has It? Type O positive is found in about 1 person in 3. Type O negative is found in about 1 person in 15. Type A positive is found in about 1 person in 3. Type A negative is found in about 1 person in 16. Type B positive is found in about 1 person in 12. Type B negative is found in about 1 person in 67. Type AB positive is found in about 1 person in 29. Type AB negative is found in about 1 person in 167. But the rarest type of blood is the type that is not available when YOU need it!

Type "O negative" blood is often called the universal blood type because patients of all blood types can receive type O negative red cells. This is the type that is transfused to patients in an emergency situation. Patients with type "AB positive" blood are often called universal recipients because they can receive red cells of any blood type. And, type AB plasma and platelets are universal in their ability to help any patient. After blood is drawn, it is typed for ABO group (blood type) and RH type (positive or negative), tested to ensure its safety for patients (see screening tests performed below), separated into the necessary components and distributed to local medical facilities for patients-in-need. Screening tests:

Hepatitis B surface antigen (HbsAg) Hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc) Hepatitis C virus antibody (anti - HCV) HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibody (anti-HIV-1 and anti-HIV-2) HIV p24 antigen HTLV-I and HTLV-II antibody (anti-HTLV-I and anti-HTLV-II) Serologic test for syphilis Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAT)

Be a Super Hero - Organize a Blood Drive! There is no greater way to give of yourself than to donate blood. Blood drives may also be sponsored by high schools, universities, churches, businesses, communities or civic groups. LifeStream will gladly bring a mobile unit to your location and will work with you to help coordinate, recruit and schedule a successful blood drive. To arrange a blood drive or to receive a free blood drive information packet, just call 1.800.TRY GIVING (1.800.879.4484). National Marrow Donor Program LifeStream is a proud member of the National Marrow Donor Program which helps people who need a lifesaving marrow or blood stem cell transplant. The Marrow Donor Program connects patients, doctors, donors and researchers to the vital resources they need to help more people live longer and healthier lives.

http://www.lstream.org/donate/blood-donation-facts.php

How much blood is donated each year? AABB estimates that 10.8 million volunteers donate blood each year, 29 percent of which are first time donors. According to the 2009 National Blood Collection and Utilization Report about 17 million units of whole blood and red blood cells were donated in the United States in 2008. Typically, each donated unit of blood, referred to as whole blood, is separated into multiple components, such as red blood cells, plasma, platelets, and cryoprecipitated AHF (antihemophilic factor). Each component generally is transfused to a different individual, each with different needs. Top Who needs blood? The need for blood is great. Every day in the U.S., approximately 44,000 units of blood are required in hospitals and emergency treatment facilities for patients with cancer and other diseases, for organ transplant recipients, and to help save the lives of accident/trauma victims. In 2008, more than 23 million blood components were transfused. With an aging population and advances in medical treatments and procedures requiring blood transfusions, the demand for blood continues to increase. Top Who donates blood? Although an estimated 38 percent of the U.S. population is eligible to donate blood at any given time, less than 10 percent do so annually. According to studies, the average donor is a collegeeducated white male, between the ages of 30 and 50, who is married and has an above-average income. However, a broad cross-section of the population donates every day. Furthermore, these "average" statistics are changing, and women and minority groups are volunteering in increasing numbers to donate. Persons 65 years and older account for approximately 13 percent of the population, but they require 50 percent of all whole blood and red blood cells transfused. Using current screening and donation procedures, a growing number of blood banks have found blood donation by seniors to be safe and practical. Patients scheduled for surgery may be eligible to donate blood for themselves, a process known as autologous blood donation. In the weeks before non-emergency surgery, an autologous donor may be able to donate blood that will be stored for their use. Top

What are the criteria for blood donation? Volunteer donors provide all blood used for transfusion in the United States. To be eligible to donate blood, a person must be in good health and generally must be at least 16 years of age (or in accordance with applicable state law). Minimum weight requirements may vary among facilities, but generally, donors must weigh at least 110 pounds. Most blood banks have no upper age limit. All donors must pass the physical and health history examinations prior to donation. Individuals may be temporarily ineligible to donate due to mild illnesses (colds or flu), unregulated hypertension, and diabetes and anemia. The donor's body replenishes the fluid lost from donation within 24 hours. It may take up to two weeks to replace the lost red blood cells. Whole blood can be donated once every eight weeks (56 days). Two units of red blood cells can be donated at one time, using a process known as red cell apheresis. This type of donation can be made every 16 weeks. Top Who should not donate blood? Anyone who has ever used needles to take drugs, steroids, or any substance not prescribed by a doctor Men who have had sexual contact with other men since 1977

Anyone with a positive test for HIV (AIDS virus) Men and women who have engaged in sex for money or drugs since 1977 Anyone who has had hepatitis since his or her eleventh birthday Anyone who has had babesiosis or Chagas disease Anyone who has taken Tegison for psoriasis Anyone who has risk factors for Crueutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) or who has an immediate family member with CJD Anyone who has risk factors for vCJD, including:
o

Anyone who spent three months or more in the United Kingdom from 1980 through 1996 Anyone who received a blood transfusion in the United Kingdom or France from 1980 to the present Anyone who has spent five years in Europe from 1980 to the present.

Top

Where is blood donated? There are many places where blood donations can be made. Bloodmobiles (mobile blood drives on specially constructed buses) travel to many locations, making it easy for people to donate blood. Many people donate at blood drives at their places of work or at high schools, colleges, churches and other community organizations. People also can donate at community blood centers and hospital-based donor centers. You may use the online Locator or consult the yellow pages to locate a nearby blood center or hospital to donate. Top What is apheresis? Apheresis, an increasingly common procedure, is the process of removing a specific component of the blood, such as platelets, red blood cells, plasma (liquid part of the blood) or granulocytes (white blood cells) and returning the remaining components to the donor. This process allows more of one particular part of the blood to be collected than could be separated from a unit of whole blood. The apheresis donation procedure takes longer than that of a whole blood donation. A whole blood donation takes about 10 to 20 minutes to collect the blood, while an apheresis donation may take about one to two hours depending on the blood component(s) that is being donated. Top What is the most common blood type? The approximate distribution of blood types in the U.S. blood donor population is as follows. Distribution may be different for specific racial and ethnic groups and in different parts of the country: O Rh-positive --- 39 percent O Rh-negative --- 9 percent A Rh-positive --- 31 percent A Rh-negative --- 6 percent B Rh-positive --- 9 percent B Rh-negative --- 2 percent AB Rh-positive --- 3 percent AB Rh-negative --- 1 percent In an emergency, anyone can receive type O red blood cells, and type AB individuals can receive red blood cells of any ABO type. Therefore, people with type O blood are known as "universal donors," and those with type AB blood are known as "universal recipients." In addition, individuals of all types can receive type AB plasma. Top

What tests are performed on donated blood? After blood has been drawn, it is tested for ABO group (blood type) and Rh type (positive or negative), as well as for any unexpected red blood cell antibodies that may cause problems in a recipient. Screening tests also are performed for evidence of donor infection with hepatitis B and C viruses, human immunodeficiency viruses HIV-1 and HIV-2, human T-lymphotropic viruses HTLV-I and HTLV-II, West Nile virus (WNV), and syphilis. Each donor is tested at least one time for antibodies to Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite that causes Chagas' disease. The specific tests currently performed are listed below:

Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) Hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc) Hepatitis C virus antibody (anti-HCV) HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibody (anti-HIV-1 and anti-HIV-2) HTLV-I and HTLV-II antibody (anti-HTLV-I and anti-HTLV-II) Serologic test for syphilis Nucleic acid amplification testing (NAT) for HIV-1, HCV and WNV Antibody test for Trypanosoma cruzi, the agent of Chagas' disease

Top How is blood stored and used? Each unit of whole blood normally is separated into several components. Red blood cells may be stored under refrigeration for a maximum of 42 days, or they may be frozen for up to 10 years. Red cells carry oxygen and are used to treat anemia or blood loss. Platelets are important in the control of bleeding and are generally used in patients with leukemia and other forms of cancer. Platelets are stored at room temperature and may be kept for a maximum of five days. Plasma can be stored frozen for a year before being thawed and transfused. Plasma serves as a source of plasma proteins for patients who are deficient in or have defective plasma proteins and is generally indicated for management of preoperative or bleeding patients who require replacement of multiple plasma coagulation factors. Cryoprecipitated AHF, which contains only a few specific clotting factors, is made from fresh frozen plasma and may be stored frozen for up to one year. Granulocytes are sometimes used to fight infections, although their efficacy is not well established. They must be transfused within 24 hours of donation.

Other products manufactured from blood include albumin, immune globulin, specific immune globulins, and clotting factor concentrates. Commercial manufacturers commonly produce these blood products. Top What fees are associated with blood? While donated blood is free, there are significant costs associated with collecting, testing, preparing components, labeling, storing and shipping blood; recruiting and educating donors; and quality assurance. As a result, processing fees are charged to recover costs. Processing fees for individual blood components vary considerably. Processing fees for one specific component also may vary in different geographic regions. Hospitals charge for any additional testing that may be required, such as the crossmatch, as well as for the administration of the blood. Top What is the availability of blood? The blood supply varies among the many regions throughout the U.S. The blood supply level also fluctuates throughout the year. Factors impacting blood inventories often include holidays/travel schedules, inclement weather and illness. Historically, blood collections can be low during the winter and summer months. In addition, recommended guidance by the Food and Drug Administration can eliminate, or defer, donors who may be at risk for transmitting a transfusion-transmissible disease such as variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD) - the human variety of the disease that is commonly known as "mad-cow" disease and malarias. Such guidance can reduce the number of people who are eligible to donate. A reduction in donor turnout can put our nation's blood inventory at a critical low. Top What can you do if you aren't eligible to donate? While a given individual may be unable to donate, he or she may be able to recruit a suitable donor. Blood banks are always in need of volunteers to assist at blood draws or to organize mobile blood drives. In addition, monetary donations are always welcome to help ensure that blood banks can continue to provide safe and adequate blood to those in need.

http://www.aabb.org/resources/bct/pages/bloodfaq.aspx

How often can I donate blood? You can donate whole blood every 56 days, up to six times per Blood Can be Donated if: 1. You are between the age of 18-60 with good health and physique. 2. Your weight is at least 50 kg or 110 pounds. 3. You are free of infections like cold, flu, sore throat, lung infection and fever.In order to donate blood you have to wait till you get free of these infections. 4. If you Diabetes in under control it is safe for you to donate blood. 5. If you have had surgery in recent months you should not donate blood. 6. Pregnant women cannot donate their blood during pregnancy and have to wait 2 months after delivery. 7. You cannot donate your blood if you are a hepatitis B, C or HIV patient. 8. You can donate your blood after 56 days of your last donation. How Your Blood Gets Replaced : Blood is constituted of two main parts 1. The liquid part: Plasma 2. The cellular part: Red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. The liquid part is replenished in donors between 2-3 days after donation, while the cellular part takes an average time of 29-56 days.

Benefits of Donating Blood: Reduce Chances Of Cardiovascular Diseases: - Donating blood simply means lower iron levels in your blood and lower iron levels helps reduce cardiovascular diseases. According to medical reports, high blood iron levels have the potential to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease because iron accelerates the oxidation process of cholesterol in the body, which damages arteries and causes many cardiovascular diseases.

- Florida Blood Services reports that blood donors who have been regularly donating blood over the years have an 88 percent lower risk of heart attacks and a 33 percent lower risk of stroke.

Reduces Risk of Cancer:

Consistent blood donation is associated with lowered risks for cancers including lung, liver, colon, stomach and throat cancers. Helps in fighting Hemochromitosis:

Hemochromitosis is a genetic disorder and is also known as iron overload disorder where iron accumulates in the body tissue because of improper iron metabolism. This condition may lead to tissue and organ damage.

Enhance the production of new Red Blood Cells:

As the blood is withdrawn from the donors body there is decrease in blood cells. To replenish it, new cells are immediately produced by the bone marrow. Therefore donating blood helps in stimulating generation of new blood cells and refreshing your circulatory system.

Burns calories: One can lose fats by donating blood regularly. One pint of blood (450 ml) when donated burns 650 calories in the donors body. Basic blood test is done: Before donating, your blood is tested for various diseases that include Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV, etc. The donor is immediately informed if any of these test found to be positive. Saves Lives: Blood donation is a noble cause that allows you to save the lives of others. So lets spread a simple message:

Donate your blood, save a life

This from the National Blood Transfusion service (UK) website:How the Body Replaces Blood? During a whole blood donation we aim to take just under a pint (about 470mls) of blood, which works out at no more than 13 per cent of your blood volume. After donation, your body has an amazing capacity to replace all the cells and fluids that have been lost. Take red cells. Millions of them are being made and dying every second. When you give blood you lose red cells and the body needs to make more to replace them. Special cells in the kidneys, called peritubular cells, sense that the level of oxygen in the blood has decreased (due to the loss of red cells) and start secreting a protein called erythropoietin. This passes through the bloodstream until it reaches the bone marrow (the soft fatty tissue inside the bone cavities). The bone marrow produces stem cells, the building blocks that the body uses to make the different blood cells red cells, white cells and platelets. The erythropoietin sends a message to the stem cells telling more of them to develop into red blood cells, rather than white cells or platelets. Your body makes about two million new red cells every second, so it doesnt take long to build up stores of them again. What about your white cells and platelets? A number of other messenger proteins also stimulate the production of these cells in the bone marrow, and over the next few

days levels return to normal. Why Wait? So why wait 16 weeks between whole blood donations? Well, unlike white cells and platelets, it takes several weeks for all the red cells to be replaced. Theres an important link between your red cells and your health because its these cells, or rather the red-coloured haemoglobin they contain, that take oxygen around your body. Haemoglobin contains iron and some is lost with each blood donation. To compensate, iron is mobilised from the body's iron stores, and the body also increases the amount of iron it absorbs from food and drink. Any iron deficiency can result in reduced haemoglobin levels, and eventually, if not treated, in iron deficiency anaemia. This deficiency can make you feel tired, which is why, as well as asking you to wait 16 weeks to donate whole blood, we also test your haemoglobin levels every time you give. We make sure that your haemoglobin level is above 125g/l for women and135g/l for men. Iron levels The body stores iron in the form of two proteins ferritin (in men it accounts for about 70 per cent of stored iron, in women 80 percent) and haemosiderin. The proteins are found in the liver, bone marrow, spleen and muscles. If too much iron is taken out of storage and not replaced through dietary sources, iron stores may become depleted and haemoglobin levels fall. After a donation, most peoples haemoglobin levels are back to normal after six to twelve weeks. We ask you to wait 16 weeks to ensure that if you are a dedicated loyal donor who never misses a donation, we dont risk lowering your haemoglobin levels over the long term. You can help your iron levels by eating a variety of iron-rich foods. On average men need to replace about 1mg of iron per day, women 2mg. With a balanced diet, getting enough iron shouldnt be a problem. Foods such as lean red meat, poultry, fish, leafy green vegetables, brown rice, lentils and beans can all boost your haemoglobin. Vitamin C helps with iron absorption, so to get the most from the food you eat, drink a glass of vitamin C-rich fruit juice with your meal. Drink up Blood volume makes up approximately eight per cent of your body weight. About 55 percent of blood is comprised of plasma, of which 90 per cent is water. So although you donate less than a pint of blood at a time, almost half of this is water. Thats why it is important for you to drink plenty of water (we would like you to drink at least 500ml), just before you donate and immediately after youve donated. Its important to replace fluids after youve donated, to help bring your blood volume levels back to normal. The kidneys also play their part in controlling blood volume by regulating the amount of sodium and water lost in urine. Feeling faint

After donation some people can feel faint. When the body loses blood, special nerve cells in the walls of the arteries of the neck, called baroreceptors, sense that your blood pressure has dropped. The blood vessels constrict to compensate for this loss and to keep the blood pressure normal. Standing up too quickly, for example, can cause an abrupt drop in your blood pressure and make you feel light headed. Lying on the couch restores blood flow to the brain as your head will be at the same level as your heart. Sitting on the edge of the donation bed with your feet hanging down for at least two minutes will also help, as it allows your blood pressure to stabilise itself before you stand up. If you are feeling faint, our staff will ask you to stay at the session until you feel well again. (NBTS) We medical folk have ways of classifying 'shock' due to loss of circulating volume. The categories range from Class I shock to Class IV, with Class IV signifying a loss of 40% of circulating volume (usually 2000 mls +) Class I shock - the first classification can occur with volume loss of 750ml and can be associated with the onset of symptoms, eg slightly elevated respiratory rate, narrowed pulse pressure, mild anxiety. It is important to avoid potentially inducing these symptoms in an otherwise well person and so the amount taken is a good percent lower than this amount.

Blood Donation FAQs What are the minimum requirements to become a blood donor? Check with your local blood bank to determine the exact requirements, but generally, you must be at least 16 years of age, a minimum of 110 pounds, and in basic good health. Will donating blood hurt? You may feel a slight sting in the beginning lasting only a couple of seconds, but there should be no discomfort during the donation. Are blood donors paid? No. Blood collected for transfusion in the US is given by volunteer blood donors. How badly is blood needed? Blood supplies can vary depending on the region and time of year. As donor qualifications continue to become stricter and as the donor population ages, our nation is at risk of a low blood supply. If you are eligible, your blood donations are needed.

Why are there often blood shortages? Most blood centers strive to maintain an optimum inventory level of a three-day supply. Due to unpredictable demands from trauma incidents the inventory fluctuates hourly. When the blood supply drops below a three-day level, blood centers begin alerting local donors to increase the inventory to a safe operating level. Can I get AIDS from donating blood? No. There is no risk of contracting AIDS or any other disease through the donation process. Each collection kit is sterile, pre-packaged and used only once. Do I have enough blood in my body to donate? Yes. The body contains 10 to 12 pints of blood. Your whole blood donation is approximately one pint. How much blood is taken? For a whole blood donation, approximately one pint (which weighs about one pound) is collected. For a platelet donation, the amount collected depends on your height, weight and platelet count. How much time does it take for my body to replace the blood that I donated? Not long at all. The volume of fluids will adjust within a few hours of your donation. The red blood cells will be replaced within a few weeks. How often may I donate? You may donate whole blood once every 56 days, which allows plenty of time for your red cells to be replenished. Platelet (apheresis) donors may donate more frequently -- as often as once every seven days and up to 24 times per year. This is because the body replenishes platelets and plasma more quickly than red cells. Platelets will return to normal levels within about 72 hours of donating. Plasma (the liquid portion of your blood) will return to normal levels within a couple of days. Red blood cells (the oxygen-carrying cells) will take approximately two weeks to reach their normal levels. How long until my blood is used? Most blood donations are processed and available for use within 48 hours. Does donated blood stay on the shelf indefinitely until it is used? No. Each unit of whole blood normally is separated into several components. Red blood cells may be stored under refrigeration for a maximum of 42 days, or they may be frozen for up to 10 years. Red cells carry oxygen and are used to treat anemia or blood loss. Platelets are important in the control of bleeding and are generally used in patients with leukemia and other forms of cancer. Platelets are stored at room temperature and may be kept for a maximum of five days. Fresh frozen plasma, used to control bleeding due to low levels of some clotting factors, is kept in a frozen state for up to one year. Cryoprecipitated AHF, which contains only a few specific

clotting factors, is made from fresh frozen plasma and may be stored frozen for up to one year. Granulocytes are sometimes used to fight infections, although their efficacy is not well established. They must be transfused within 24 hours of donation. Other products manufactured from blood include albumin, immune globulin, specific immune globulins, and clotting factor concentrates. Commercial manufacturers commonly produce these blood products. Are the health history questions necessary every time I donate? To ensure the safest possible blood supply, all donors must be asked all the screening questions at each donation. The FDA requires that all blood centers conform to this practice. What is the most common blood type? The approximate distribution of blood types in the US blood donor population is as follows. Distribution may be different for specific racial and ethnic groups: O Rh-positive - 39 percent O Rh-negative - 9 percent A Rh-positive - 31 percent A Rh-negative - 6 percent B Rh-positive - 9 percent B Rh-negative - 2 percent AB Rh-positive - 3 percent AB Rh-negative - 1 percent In an emergency, anyone can receive type O red blood cells, and type AB individuals can receive red blood cells of any ABO type. Therefore, people with type O blood are known as universal donors, and those with type AB blood are known as universal recipients. In addition, individuals of all types can receive type AB plasma. Is there such thing as artificial blood? Scientists have yet to find a successful substitute for human blood. This is why blood donors are so vital to the lives of those who are in need of blood. What fees are associated with blood? While donated blood is free, there are significant costs associated with collecting, testing, preparing components, labeling, storing and shipping blood; recruiting and educating donors; and quality assurance. As a result, processing fees are charged to recover costs. Processing fees for individual blood components vary considerably. Processing fees for one specific component also may vary in different geographic regions. Hospitals charge for any additional testing that may be required, such as the crossmatch, as well as for the administration of the blood.

Is there anything I should do before I donate? Be sure to eat well at your regular mealtimes and drink plenty of fluids. What does the term donor deferral mean? Individuals disqualified from donating blood are known as "deferred" donors. A prospective donor may be deferred at any point during the collection and testing process. Whether or not a person is deferred temporarily or permanently will depend on the specific reason for disqualification (e.g., a person may be deferred temporarily because of anemia, a condition that is usually reversible). If a person is to be deferred, his or her name is entered into a list of deferred donors maintained by the blood center, often known as the "deferral registry." If a deferred donor attempts to give blood before the end of the deferral period, the donor will not be accepted for donation. Once the reason for the deferral no longer exists and the temporary deferral period has lapsed, the donor may return to the blood bank and be re-entered into the system. Those who may be deferred include:

Anyone who has ever used intravenous drugs (illegal IV drugs) Men who have had sexual contact with other men since 1977 Anyone with a positive test for HIV (AIDS virus) Men and women who have engaged in sex for money or drugs since 1977 Anyone who has had hepatitis since his or her eleventh birthday Anyone who has had babesiosis or Chagas disease Anyone who has taken Tegison for psoriasis Anyone who has risk factors for Crueutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) or who has an immediate family member with CJD Anyone who has risk factors for vCJD Anyone who spent three months or more in the United Kingdom from 1980 through 1996 Anyone who received a blood transfusion in the United Kingdom or France from 1980 to the present Anyone who has spent five years in Europe from 1980 to the present.

I was recently deferred for an inconclusive Hepatitis B core test. Can you explain the reasoning behind the deferral and when I might be eligible to donate blood again? Antibody to hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc) is an antibody that generally appears close to the onset of clinical hepatitis and may persist for years or for life. FDA recommends that blood and

blood components found to be repeatedly reactive for anti-HBc should not be used for transfusion. Studies have demonstrated that transfusions of blood that is reactive for anti-HBc, but negative for Hepatitis B Surface Antigen, were associated with some cases of posttransfusion hepatitis. The numbers of transfusion recipients developing hepatitis in such circumstances are, indeed, extremely low, but FDA is committed to ensuring the safest blood supply possible. FDA has provided recommendations for a requalification method or process for the reentry of deferred donors into the donor pool based on a determination that previous tests that were repeatedly reactive for antibodies to hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc) were falsely positive and that there is no evidence of infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV). A copy of the May 2010 guidance document Requalification Method for Reentry of Blood Donors Deferred Because of Reactive Test Results for Antibody to Hepatitis B Core Antigen (Anti-HBc) can be obtained from FDA's website athttp://www.fda.gov/downloads/BiologicsBloodVaccines/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInfor mation/Guidances/Blood/UCM210268.pdf. If I was deferred once before, am I still ineligible to donate? If your deferral is of a permanent nature, you will be informed. Otherwise, the deferral time depends upon the reason for deferral. Prior to each donation, you will be given a mini-physical and medical interview. At that time, it will be determined if you are eligible to donate blood on that particular day. If I just received a flu shot, can I donate blood? Yes. There is no waiting period to donate after receiving a flu shot. If I have a cold or the flu, can I donate blood? In order to donate, blood centers require that you be in generally good health (symptom-free) and recommend that you are feeling well. Can I still donate if I have high blood pressure? Yes, if your blood pressure in under control and within the limits set in the donation guidelines. What if I'm taking aspirin or medication prescribed by my doctor? Aspirin and ibuprofen will not affect a whole blood donation. Apheresis platelet donors, however, must not take aspirin or aspirin products 36 hours prior to donation. Many other medications are acceptable. It is recommended that you call the donor center ahead of time to inquire about any medications you are taking. What if I have anemia? You cannot give blood if you have anemia. However, this can often be a temporary condition. Your hemoglobin will be tested before you donate to make sure it is at an acceptable level.

How can I increase my iron level? Donors may be deferred from donating due to a low hematocrit (iron) level. This restriction is for the safety of the donor and ensures that after donation, the donor's hematocrit level will still be within the normal range for a healthy adult. Since hematocrit levels can fluctuate daily, a deferral for a low hematocrit level does not mean a donor is anemic. A donor may help increase his or her hematocrit levels by eating foods high in iron such as red meat, dark green vegetables and raisins or by taking a multivitamin that contains iron. How long will the actual donation process take? The actual donation takes about 5-10 minutes. The entire donation process, from registration to post-donation refreshments, takes about one hour. What types of tests are performed on donated blood? After blood is drawn, it is tested for ABO group (blood type) and RH type (positive or negative), as well as for any unexpected red blood cell antibodies that may cause problems for the recipient. Screening tests performed are listed below:

Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) Hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc) Hepatitis C virus antibody (anti-HCV) HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibody (anti-HIV-1 and anti-HIV-2) HTLV-I and HTLV-II antibody (anti-HTLV-I and anti-HTLV-II) Serologic test for syphilis Nucleic acid amplification testing (NAT) for HIV-1, HCV and WNV Anitbody test for Trypanosoma cruzi, the agent of Chagas' disease

How will I feel after I donate? Most people feel great after giving blood. If you feel any abnormal symptoms, let a staff member at the blood donation center or blood drive know. You should avoid lifting heavy objects or strenuous exercise for the next 24 hours; otherwise you can resume full activity as long as you feel well. Where can I donate blood? Use the AABB blood bank locator to find the blood donation center nearest you, and then contact the blood bank to make an appointment and find out what they require. What can you do if you aren't eligible to donate? While a given individual may be unable to donate, he or she may be able to recruit a suitable donor. Blood banks are always in need of volunteers to assist at blood draws or to organize

mobile blood drives. In addition, monetary donations are always welcome to help ensure that blood banks can continue to provide safe blood to those in need. How can I host a blood drive at my work, school or church? Use the AABB blood bank locator to find the blood donation center nearest you, and then contact the blood center to find out what they require. After you give blood:

Take the following precautions: Drink an extra four glasses (eight ounces each) of non-alcoholic liquids. Keep your bandage on and dry for the next five hours, and do not do heavy exercising or lifting. If the needle site starts to bleed, raise your arm straight up and press on the site until the bleeding stops. Because you could experience dizziness or loss of strength, use caution if you plan to do anything that could put you or others at risk of harm. For any hazardous occupation or hobby, follow applicable safety recommendations regarding your return to these activities following a blood donation. Eat healthy meals and consider adding iron-rich foods to your regular diet, or discuss taking an iron supplement with your health care provider, to replace the iron lost with blood donation. If you get a bruise: Apply ice to the area intermittently for 10-15 minutes during the first 24 hours. Thereafter, apply warm, moist heat to the area intermittently for 10-15 minutes. A rainbow of colors may occur for about 10 days. If you get dizzy or lightheaded: Stop what you are doing, lie down, and raise your feet until the feeling passes and you feel well enough to safely resume activities. And remember to enjoy the feeling of knowing you have helped save lives! Schedule your next appointment. If this is your first donation, expect your American Red Cross Donor Card in the mail within 6-8 weeks. How long will it take to replenish the pint of blood I donate? The plasma from your donation is replaced within about 24 hours. Red cells need about four to six weeks for complete replacement. Thats why at least eight weeks are required between whole blood donations. How often can I donate blood? You must wait at least eight weeks (56 days) between donations of whole blood and 16 weeks (112 days) between double red cell donations. Platelet apheresis donors may give every 7 days up to 24 times per year. Regulations are different for those giving blood for themselves (autologous donors).

What is apheresis? Apheresis is the process by which platelets and other specific blood components (red cells or plasma) are collected from a donor. The word apheresis is derived from the Greek word aphaeresis meaning to take away. This process is accomplished by using a machine called a cell separator. Blood is drawn from the donor and the platelets, or another blood component, are collected by the cell separator and the remaining components of the blood are returned to the donor during the donation. Each apheresis donation procedure takes about one-and-one-half to two hours. Donors can watch movies or relax during the donation. What are platelets and how are they used? Platelets are tiny, colorless, disc-shaped particles circulating in the blood, and they are essential for normal blood clotting. Platelets are critically important to the survival of many patients with clotting problems (aplastic anemia, leukemia) or cancer, and patients who will undergo organ transplants or major surgeries like heart bypass grafts. Platelets can only be stored for five days after being collected. Maintaining an adequate supply of this lifesaving, perishable product is an ongoing challenge. How often can I give platelets? Every 7 days up to 24 apheresis donations can be made in a year. Some apheresis donations can generate two or three adult-sized platelet transfusion doses from one donation! What is Chagas disease? About 100,000 people in the United States are thought to be infected with Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite that causes Chagas disease. Up to 20 million people are believed to be infected in Mexico, Central and South America. Only about one percent of those infected show immediate symptoms, which can include fever, malaise, and swelling. Most appear to recover, although a few infants and people with suppressed immune systems suffer fatal brain swelling. About 30 percent of all those infected develop a dormant form that festers in the nerve cells of the heart and intestines for 10 to 30 years before progressing to severe disease and death by heart failure or a ruptured intestine. In 2007, the American Red Cross began testing donor blood for Chagas disease. Not all units of blood that test positive for antibodies to the Chagas parasite will transmit the disease, but all that have a positive test result are discarded. What is TRALI? Transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) is a serious blood transfusion complication thought to be most commonly caused by white blood cell antibodies present in the plasma component of blood products. When transfused, these antibodies sometimes activate a type of white blood cell called a granulocyte, which causes plasma to leak into the lungs, resulting in fluid accumulation a condition referred to as acute pulmonary edema. Donors who are more likely to have these antibodies include women who have been pregnant and men or women who have previously received a transfusion or transplant. There are currently no screening tests to prevent TRALI, nor is there any single intervention that can eliminate the risk of TRALI. However, some steps to reduce the risk of TRALI are being taken for products that contain high volumes of plasma.

Are blood substitutes available? No, there are currently no substitutes for blood. However, research is continually being done to identify new alternatives to blood transfusion. The Red Cross actively follows blood substitute research and works closely with other organizations that develop new transfusion alternatives. http://www.redcrossblood.org/donating-blood/eligibility-requirements http://www.blood.co.uk/giving-blood/faqs/#
http://www.bloodbook.com/donr-requir.html http://bharatbloodbank.com/blooddonate-tips.php