What’s Your Type?

Have you ever wondered what “blood type” means or why having supplies of all types is extremely important? You’ve arrived at answers! Read below to learn more about what a blood type is, who can receive what type of blood, and other kinds of blood donations that are needed.

What Is a Blood Type?

A blood type refers to the specific kind of antibodies (a weapon your body uses to fight infections) that are found in red blood cells. These antibodies not only determine what your blood type is, but they also determine who can receive your blood, and what kind of blood you can receive.

If the wrong type of blood is given to a patient, it’s bad news. The patient’s body will see those antibodies as “an invader,” and will attempt to attack and kill those red blood cells. This not only renders the blood transfusion useless, but can cause serious health problems, including death.

Below, you’ll see a chart that shows what kind of blood you can receive or give depending on your blood type:

What Blood Type Is Most Valuable?

While every donation of blood is valuable and can save a life, it’s possible for certain types get in short supply. We monitor our inventory levels daily and like to maintain at least a three-day reserve supply of red cells to meet any emergency needs. When blood reserves fall under those three-day levels, we will increase our communication to donors and the media to include blood type that are needed. It is vital that donors respond quickly when these shortage messages are delivered.

The universal blood type, O negative, can be transfused to patients of any blood type.  Because it can be given to anybody, even when a blood type need has not been identified, O negative red cells are always in high demand. Donors who are O negative and also CMV negative can help save the tiniest lives of all – newborn infants. These donors are enrolled as a Baby Quad donor.

Platelets, Not Just Red Blood Cells, Are Needed

Did you know that less than 4% of the population type AB blood?  It’s true – Type AB blood is the most rare of all blood types. But it’s not their red cells that makes them so unique – it’s their platelets. Type AB platelets is considered the UNIVERSAL platelet type for patients.  Platelets are used for clotting disorders, burn and shock victims, and other health issues. If you have type AB blood, your platelet donation can make a lifesaving difference for patients in our community!

Giving Blood – A Simple Action With Huge Impact

When you give blood, you are literally helping hospitals save the life of someone’s spouse, parent or child. There is no easier way to save a life than to give blood.

Find out right now how you can give blood today and help save a life by locating a blood drive near you.