Bloodworks Northwest is desperately seeking blood donors

Apr 26 2021, 6:29 pm

The average human has around 1.2 to 1.5 gallons of blood flowing throughout their body. That’s more than enough to donate to Bloodworks Northwest and have loads to spare.

Bloodworks Northwest is currently facing a “Code Red” with less than a 24-hour supply of blood left on its near-empty shelves.

According to the organization, there is an ongoing significant blood shortage that is affecting local hospitals and trauma centers across the Pacific Northwest.

“Blood is being shipped to hospitals faster than it’s being collected,” said Bloodworks EVP of Blood Services Vicki Finson, in a press release. “We’re actively communicating with hospitals to conserve blood and appealing to donors to book appointments so that doctors don’t need to make difficult decisions like canceling surgeries or postponing treatments based on the blood supply.”

Blood Types O and Types A are currently needed the most. According to Bloodworks, donations are currently short 700 units a week compared to the current need from hospitals.

In order to adhere to COVID-19 regulations, those looking to donate blood require an appointment, which means Bloodworks can only accommodate a fixed number of donation appointments per day. Those interested in saving a life by donating blood can book their appointment at bloodworksnw.org.

Alyssa TherrienAlyssa Therrien

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