Dr. Kimberly DeStefano knows just how crucial blood transfusions can be, and because of that, how critical blood donors are to the community. Dr. DeStefano is a maternal fetal medicine physician who provides care to mother and child in high-risk situations.
She shares, “A routine delivery can become an emergency in a blink of an eye.”
500 milliliters of blood a minute go to the uterus at full term.
Because of the increased volume of blood necessary in pregnancy, blood loss can be an urgent situation. It is not uncommon for patients to need 10 units of blood or blood products during or following delivery. The most common complication requiring blood transfusions is postpartum hemorrhage.
In the blink of an eye
Reflecting on her work, Dr. DeStefano shared an account where massive blood loss was identified after delivery, and swift intervention was critical. Using a machine that can transfuse large volumes in under a minute, the patient was able to receive the blood products necessary for survival.
This example emphasizes that when seconds matter, hospitals are reliant on blood donations and regular blood donations are essential to maintaining the community blood supply, ensuring hospital shelves are stocked, and keeping patients safe.
Of donated blood, Dr. DeStefano says, “Some of these women wouldn’t make it home without it.”
We Are Blood is grateful to our donors who keep the community blood supply secure through their donations. Your donations help women and children have bright futures, together.