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Blood Usage
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Donating blood is a family tradition. I used to go with my parents. Now, my kids come with me when I donate. - Susan
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Your blood donations are used to help a variety of patients in need. Blood usage varies depending on the type of surgery or illness and whether there are any complications. Below is a list of common patient needs for blood and the average amount of each blood component that is required.


    Average Units*
Patient Need Red Blood Cells Platelets Plasma
RobRob Accident victim 4-100 units    
  Kidney transplant 2 units    
MadisonMadison Premature baby 1-4 units while in intensive care    
  Liver transplant 10 units 10 units 20 units
ChasChas Cancer treatment 2-6 units 6-8 units daily for 2-4 weeks  
Heart transplant 4-6 units    
Ashely and BreanaAshley and Breana Sickle cell disease 10-15 units periodically to treat severe complications    
  Open heart surgery, adult 2-6 units 1-10 units 2-4 units
CodyCody Leukemia 2-6 units 6-8 units daily for 2-4 weeks  
  Bone marrow transplant 1-2 units given every other day for 4 weeks 6-8 units daily for 4-6 weeks  
    Average Units*

*Note: The range for each treatment can vary widely.

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