February is Heart Month; Give Blood
February is Heart Month and an opportunity to consider giving back to the heart of the community by making an appointment to give blood. The next local blood drive is scheduled to be held Monday, March 3, from 12-5 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in south Waukon.
Blood donations play a vital role in heart surgeries, emergency treatment and other medical needs that impact lives. Donating blood is a loving gesture that supports those who rely on the generosity of others.
Blood donations are needed everywhere, even right here in Iowa. The following are interesting blood facts from LifeServe Blood Center, which supplies Veterans Memorial Hospital (VMH) with its blood products:
• Blood is essential for a wide range of treatments, including cancer therapies, surgeries, trauma care and organ transplants.
• Blood transfusions are needed in one out of 83 infant deliveries.
• Nearly 30% of those who received heart bypass surgery require a blood transfusion.
• Donations have dropped by 60% among 16 to 18 year olds and by 31% among 19 to 24 year olds.
Blood donors are greatly needed. First-time donors will find that donating blood is a safe and easy way to save lives and make a difference in the community. One single blood donation can save the lives of up to three sick or injured hospital patients.
The donation process is simple:
1. Eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of fluids at least four hours prior to donating.
2. Bring proper identification, such as a donor card or a driver’s license.
3. Complete a health history questionnaire and screening interview.
4. Receive a brief health check by trained staff. This includes a check of blood pressure, pulse, temperature and blood iron levels.
5. Sit back while a unit of blood, approximately one pint, is collected. This process takes around 10 minutes.
6. Enjoy refreshments while relaxing for 10-15 minutes before leaving the facility.
The blood that is collected is tested carefully. In fact, all blood that is collected by any blood collection center is all tested the same, according to the federal regulations.
To help maintain Iowa’s blood supply, donate at the Waukon Community Blood Drive scheduled for Monday, March 3 at the First Baptist Church in south Waukon.
To schedule an appointment, call the LifeServe Blood Center at 800-287-4903.
