NCH Community Blood Drive July 27

Did you know there are several types of blood donations? Whole blood, apheresis (platelets, plasma, red blood cells) and autologous. What does that mean?

Donating a component, such as platelets, plasma and red blood cells, is very much like donating blood. The primary difference is that during a component donation, blood flows from a tube in your arm to a sterile chamber within an automation machine that separates the blood into various components. The needed components are collected, the remaining blood is returned to your body.

Each of these types helps different patient conditions. Red blood cells may be used to help accident victims, surgical patients and people with anemia. Platelets may be used to treat leukemia and other cancer patients. Plasma is often necessary in the treatment of patients suffering from burns or shock.

As a reminder, you can donate blood if:

• You are 17 years old or older
• You are in good health
• You weigh more than 110 pounds

A red blood cell donation takes 30 minutes or less after initial screening, and a platelet donation takes 90 minutes or less after initial screening. Also, donors receive a free wellness exam that includes blood pressure, temperature and pulse checks and a hemoglobin/iron test.

Upcoming Community Blood Drive at NCH
Join us from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Wed., July 27, in Rooms 6 and 7 of the main hospital to donate blood. Many appointments are still open. To make an appointment online visit https://donate.illinois.versiti.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/5599964. Appointments are preferred; however, walk-ins are welcome. Photo ID and mask are required.

NCH works with Versiti Blood Center of Illinois and plan to host monthly blood drives throughout 2022 on Aug. 24; Sept. 28; Oct. 26; Nov. 29 and Dec. 21.