More blood drives coming to Village of Oak Creek

The American Red Cross is increasing their presence with blood drives being scheduled more frequently in West Sedona and the VOC. Blood is a perishable product that can only come from volunteer blood donors. According to the RED CROSS, while only about 3% of eligible people donate, someone in the U.S. needs blood every two seconds. Thus, blood products must be replenished constantly. Donors with all blood types are needed, though especially those with O-, A- and B-. Donors must be at least 16 years old and weigh at least 110 pounds.

The donation process is quick and simple. First it is highly recommended to make an appointment. Appointments can be made at www.redcross.org/blood by just entering the ZIP code of where you want to donate or on the Red Cross Donor app. The day of the donation the required educational materials and health history can be completed at home online at www.redcross.org/rapidpass or on the Red Cross Donor app. Upon completing the health history, a QR code will be provided which will need to be shown at the donor appointment.

It is suggested that donors arrive at the donation site approximately 10 minutes prior to their scheduled appointment. In order to be registered, donors will be asked to show a valid ID or blood donor card. Next donors meet with a phlebotomist who will check the donor’s temperature, blood pressure and hemoglobin (iron) level, and review the donor’s health history.

Assuming all is well, the donor will move to a donation bed, a spot on the arm is cleansed, and a brand new, sterile needle will be inserted. Usually nothing more than a little pinch is felt. A typical whole blood donation takes 8-10 minutes, after which the donor spends 10-15 minutes in the ‘canteen’, enjoying a variety of snacks and drinks. During this time donors are given the opportunity to schedule their next donation appointment, then they are free to leave and enjoy the rest of their day knowing they are helping to save lives.

Currently scheduled drives in West Sedona are: Friday, Sept. 1 – Sunset Village; Wednesday, October 11 – Sedona Fire District; and Wednesday, Oct.. 18 – Sedona Public Library. Check online for newly added drives.

Currently scheduled drives in the Village of Oak Creek are: Thursday, August 31 – Village of Oak Creek Church of the Nazarene and Tuesday, Oct. 17 – Oak Creek Country Club. Check online for newly added drives.

For additional information contact the Yavapai County Bio-Med Volunteer Lead, Janet Dubiel, at janet.dubiel@redcross.org