Wednesday, May 30, 2007

Platelets Needed

I've already activated some of you for the above.
And I know I would have many more potential donors if I'd call on the rest of you. But if you haven't gotten an SMS or call from me, don't worry it only means that we have sufficient for now. Thank you!

What are Platelets?
Platelets is one of the components of whole blood. Whole blood is made of several components including red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets and plasma. Each component plays a special role and platelets help to prevent bleeding.

What is Platelet Donation (plateletpheresis)?
This is a special kind of blood donation that allows for platelets to be extracted from whole blood. Whole blood is withdrawn from the donor and separated into its various components by a blood separator machine. The rest of its components are returned to the donor except for the platelets.

How does it work and how long does it take?
The procedure is exactly like normal blood donation/transfusion and requires about 2 hours to complete.

Why does Joanne need this?
Patients with cancer will need platelet transfusion to prevent bleeding. Many times during her chemotherapy treatment (and radiotherapy treatment) both cancer and healthy cells are destroyed, thus lowering their ability to prevent bleeding.
Also, Jo will be doing a small procedure next week to have a tube attached to her stomach so as to have the water drain constantly instead of having to come back to NCC regularly.

Is This Safe?
1. Yes. Each donation is closely supervised by trained staff who will observe you throughout the process. During the donation you will may experience mild side effects like a tingling sensation around the lips and nose. This is due to the anticoagulant used in the procedure. Serious side effects like hypotension and fainting spells are uncommon.

2. The donation does not significantly reduce the platelets in you as your body will replace platelets quickly. You should experience no bleeding problems.

Who can be a Donor?
a. Between 18-45 years old
b. Weigh at least 50kg
c. Must be of 0+ Blood Type
d. Be in good health (not sick) or have not taken antibiotics, aspirin or products containing aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medications for 72 hours.
e. Have good prominent veins on both arms.

Where Must I Go For This?
Apheresis Suite at the National Cancer Centre (NCC) is located at Ambulatory Treatment Unit (ATU), Level 3. Please obtain a set of screening forms from the nurses in the ward. If required, you will be issued with an excuse cert for time spent for screening and donation.
National Cancer Centre11 Hospital Drive Singapore 169610
Main Tel & Fax No Tel: +65 6436 8000Fax: +65 6225 6283
Operating Hours:
Mondays to Fridays - 8.00am to 5.30 pm
How do I Get Here?

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