Sentara Health encourages blood donation during Blood Donor Month

As Sentara encourages blood donation for Blood Donor Month, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is piloting a new technology that provides clinicians with safe, fast access to blood products, including whole blood, red blood cells, and plasma.

Starting last month, the hospital began using four BloodTrack blood storage systems to dispense blood products closer to the patient bedside. The new systems and proximity to patients allows staff to obtain these products quickly, accurately, and safely.

Someone in the United States needs blood every two seconds. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital alone conducts an average of 2,250 transfusions each month. Sentara laboratory services partners with the American Red Cross to provide red blood cells, platelets, and plasma to all 12 Sentara hospitals and all five of Sentara’s freestanding emergency departments.

As part of our mission to improve health every day, Sentara is spreading the word about the critical blood supply and encouraging community members to donate. 

“Highlighting Blood Donor Month is crucial,” said Ian Noga, vice president of laboratory services. “Transfusions are regularly needed to treat patients with acute care needs such as trauma, ongoing disease management like cancer and blood disorders as well as infusions, surgeries, and more.”

January has been designated as Blood Donor Month since 1970. The proclamation was made by President Richard Nixon to pay tribute to blood donors and encourage new ones. The first of the year is historically a challenging time for blood centers. Holiday gatherings, winter weather, colds, and flu are some of the reasons donor turnout tends to be low.

Blood Donor Month serves as a reminder that a simple act, like donating blood, can have a big impact. One donation can save up to three lives. While type O blood, the universal donor, is most requested, every type is needed.

To learn more about blood donation or to make an appointment, visit redcrossblood.orgor call 1-800-RED-CROSS. Spread the word.