Did you know that there are different ways that you can donate blood? The most common method for donating is whole blood donation. While whole blood donation is needed, there is another form of blood donation that can help even more people from just a single donation. Double red cell donation is a donation method that is in high demand and can save many lives in the process.
Click Here to See the Important Blood Donation Stats
How Does Double Red Cell Donation Work?
With traditional whole blood donation, all parts of the blood such as plasma and red blood cells are taken during the donation. Double red cell donation is different in the fact that only the red blood cells are collected during the donation process. During the donation process, the whole blood goes through a machine that separates the red blood cells from the other blood components including (platelets, plasma, and white blood cells). These blood components are then returned to the donor by mixing them with a saline solution. Because parts of the blood are returned to the donor during the process, most donors experience minimal side effects from a double red cell donation than after a whole blood donation. Compared to whole blood donations, double red cell donations can help up to twice as many people in need of blood transfusions. Red blood cells are also the most needed component of the blood for hospitals and clinics. Donors can donate blood every 112 days with double red blood cell donations.
Who is Eligible?
Along with the standard requirements for donating blood, double red cell donations have a few extra requirements for a donor to be eligible to donate. For double red blood cell collections, the donor must have a Total Blood Volume (TBV) of at least 4.5 Liters. Trima uses the donor’s gender, height, and weight to calculate TBV. The hematocrit required for each donor’s eligibility for double red cell donation will vary according to their gender, height, and weight.
What Blood Types are Needed Most?
While any blood type can be given during a double red cell donation, there are some that are more in need than others. The types of blood that are most needed are O-, O+, A-, and B-. These blood types are in high demand in hospitals and are often in short supply. Donors with type O blood are highly encouraged to donate blood because of the need for type O blood in hospitals and clinics. Blood types A+ and B+ should consider giving a whole blood donation since the plasma from these blood types is commonly needed along with the red blood cells.
Many hospitals and clinics are struggling to receive the number of blood donations that are needed to operate. If you are able to give blood, we highly encourage you to sign up today to donate blood at a local blood donation center. To donate blood with South Bend Medical Center visit our donor portal to schedule an appointment today.
