The need for blood donations has decreased over the past few months, with hospitals focusing on the treatment of COVID-19 patients. But Versiti Blood Center of Indiana now says that need for donations has quickly shifted with hospitals resuming surgeries and anticipating trauma cases as stay-at-home orders are relaxed in some communities.
“The need is immediate,” said Versiti Senior Medical Director Dan Waxman, M.D. “These are extraordinary times, and there’s been a lot of uncertainty because of the coronavirus. When dozens of blood drives were canceled in March and April because of the virus, we saw tremendous community outpouring at our donor centers. The need has now spiked again, and we seek the generosity of donors to ensure hospitals have the necessary blood products as they resume elective surgery and other essential medical care.”
Versiti indicates a particular need for O negative blood – the universal blood type used in trauma situations. With stay-at-home orders relaxing in some communities and warmer weather on the horizon, a higher number of accidents and trauma events are anticipated.
Since it is the blood currently on hand that saves lives, maintaining a sufficient blood supply is essential to ensure patients in need receive optimal treatment.
To ensure ongoing donor safety, Versiti requires all employees and donors to wear cloth face coverings during the donation process. Donors are asked to bring their face covering.
Social distancing is also being practiced at all donation centers and community blood drives, and the temperature of all potential blood donors is being taken, as well as that of staff members. In addition, Versiti has implemented increased cleaning and disinfecting procedures in all donor centers and mobile donation sites.
Appointments are strongly encouraged. With coronavirus safety precautions in place, walk-ins could experience wait times. Call (317) 916-5150 or visit versiti.org/Indiana.
About Versiti Blood Center of Indiana
Founded in 1952, Versiti Blood center of Indiana, formerly Indiana Blood Center, is a non-profit organization and vital community resource dedicated to providing a continuous, safe and adequate supply of blood components and biological services to more than 80 Indiana hospitals and their patients and beyond. More than 90,000 Hoosiers donate life-saving blood each year.