Phuket Regional Blood Center calls for O+ donors to replenish stocks

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Phuket Regional Blood Center calls for O+ donors to replenish stocks
Phuket Gazette


Though the PRBC is in need of type O-positive blood, all blood types are welcome to donate. Photo: PRBC

PHUKET: -- The Phuket Regional Blood Center (PRBC) is calling for blood donations from donors with blood type O-positive to help replenish stocks for use at local hospitals.

Supplies of O-positive blood are down to just 20 units (pints) at the center, said PRBC Chief Pornthip Rattajak.

The blood bank aims to maintain a daily minimum stock of 200 units of A, B and O blood types, and 20 units of Rhesus-negative blood.

“The O-positive blood type is common among Thais and foreigners and is highly versatile, as it can be given to patients with any blood type, as long as the Rh-factor matches. That's why O-positive blood stocks become depleted more quickly than others,” said Ms Pornthip.

The PRBC welcomes blood donors of of all blood types. However, some restrictions apply.

Full story: http://www.phuketgazette.net/phuket-news/Phuket-Regional-Blood-Center-calls-O-donors/63517?desktopversion#ad-image-0


-- Phuket Gazette 2016-03-25

[terryp]

On Monday I went with my brother to give blood (big promotion with banners asking for blood donors), he has been a blood donor since he was 18, his blood group is O pos , after filling out 3 lots of paperwork , told to drink 3 big glass of water then another interview he was told you are too old ….he’s 56

You cant even give blood in this place without a run around……. So to see this is just infuriating

[SOTIRIOS]

....is there any basis for this age restriction....

...is blood of someone on a poor diet okay...regardless of age.....???

[FforestFach]

I had a similar experience, told I was too old at 56 despite being fit, healthy and a regular donor for 38 years. The explanation was a first time donor in Thailand has to be <=55.

[KKr]

O- is the universal blood type (i.e. without any of the Rhesus sub-factors) while O+ can only be given to matching Rhesus factor Positive recipients.
Why not ask for any "O" type blood?

Edited March 25, 2016 by KKr

[Old Croc]

I have an hereditary blood disorder and the only treatment is blood donation. My blood is good and can be used for transfusions.

I was a donor for many years before being diagnosed, and consequently have now given well over 150 times.

The blood centre here refused to have anything to do with me, so I am under treatment by a hematologist at a large local hospital.

When they take blood I have to be admitted to the CCU where I'm placed on a heart, respiration and blood pressure monitor and given intravenous fluids before the donation. This is the only way they will take the donation despite my objections and insistence that I have given hundreds of times before without needing such measures.

The doctor once told me that Thai people are smaller, don't have as much blood, and are likely to have problems during and after donation. This is the reason they shy away from taking donations from older volunteers.