Canadian Blood Services once again has an âimmediate needâ for blood donors.
In a press release on Wednesday, CBS said there were thousands of blood donation appointments to be filled across Canada by January 4.
Due to public holidays, several days of collection opportunities have been lost.
CBS said the need for platelets is urgent and ongoing to treat patients with serious blood disorders or those undergoing cancer treatment.
Platelets are a vital blood component with a shelf life of just seven days.
âThe holiday season is a difficult time to collect blood. Every donation counts and new and old donors are especially needed right now to book and meet blood donation appointments ahead of the New Year, âsaid Rick Prinzen, CBS Supply Chain Manager. .
âWe have seen the dedication of donors throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and we need this to continue. The lives of patients depend on it.
While all types of blood are needed, CBS stressed that O-negative blood is essential for hospitals because it is the only type of blood compatible with all other types.
“When seconds count, someone’s life is on the line, and there is no time to check blood group, emergency hospital patients can all receive O-negative blood,” notes the press release.
To make or change an appointment for a blood donation, locate a donor center or verify donation eligibility, visit sang.ca
“There is a lot of uncertainty during a pandemic, but there are always patients who need blood and blood products,” Prinzen said.
âWith the exception of any temporary suspension of donor center operations related to COVID-19, we will remain open to ensure essential products and services are available to patients. We are calling on new and old donors to make an appointment now, before January. “
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