Blood loss remains the leading cause of preventable death for people who suffer a traumatic injury. Nearly half of those deaths occur before the patient reaches a hospital. First Aid and Stop the Bleed classes seek to improve the likelihood of survival using the assistance of trained bystanders that can provide care prior to EMS arrival. This is incredibly important and will be continued, but we hope to improve care of our patients even further.

Part of our recent ALS upgrade includes carrying blood products for use in our area and surrounding communities. Between blood products and TXA administration we aim to provide the highest possible care for those with acute hemorrhaging and traumatic injuries. In order to do this, we partnered with Penn Medicine to obtain blood products which are now carried on our paramedic units. In the past week we have administered blood products twice. While we never wish to have patients that are critical enough to require blood administration, we do recognize the importance of having blood giving capabilities.

However, to offer these services we need blood donors. Blood donation is critically important to both us and local hospitals. It's estimated that as few as 3% of people between the ages of 16-79 donate blood. With warm summer weather rapidly approaching it's even more critical to have a steady supply of blood products on hand.

To help support the blood bank we will be hosting regular blood drives at our main station in New Holland. Our first blood drive was held in April and the turnout was better than expected! We would love to have as many or more donors for this donation day. Join us on June 24th between 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM to donate blood and support our community!

The attached flyer provides additional details. Appointments for donation can be made using the QR code on the flyer or the link below.

Questions regarding blood donations can be directed to LG Health at 717-544-0170.