Apheresis machines allow our phlebotomists to collect only the needed blood components. Platelets are collected using a machine called apheresis (ay-fur-ee-sis), which is a technology that allows a donor to give a specific blood component (such as platelets, plasma, or red cells). This means we really rely on frequent, regular platelet donors, just like many patients rely on frequent, regular platelet transfusions. Whole blood donations last up to 42 days, but platelet donations expire after only seven. Platelets are incredibly special because they are constantly needed by patients across our community, but they are very hard for us to keep on our shelves because of a short shelf life. Many people undergoing cancer treatment need frequent and regular platelet transfusions. Many patients across Central Texas, especially burn victims, premature babies, organ transplant recipients, and accident victims, rely on platelet donations for recovery. Platelets are the type of blood cell that allows our bodies to form clots–they essentially help people control their bleeding. You can donate whole blood every 56 days. The actual donation only takes around 15 minutes. Whole blood donation takes 45 minutes to an hour from arrival to walking out our front doors. Components that are transfused to local patients like red cells, plasma, and platelets. After it leaves your arm, it is separated into components by We Are Blood staff. When you donate whole blood approximately a pint of blood is taken. When most people think of “donating blood” they think of whole blood donation. Are you our missing type? Whole Blood Donations Not all blood donations are the same, and often times we have an increased need for one type over the other. We Are Blood needs 200 blood donations per day in order to maintain a safe and healthy blood supply. Whether you're donating whole blood, platelets, or double red cells, your donation is thicker than water.
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