Our Story
Blood donation truly is the "Gift of Life" for patients in need.
For patients who have rapidly lost a substantial portion of their blood volume, there is no substitute for blood component therapy. As a Level I Trauma Center, UC Irvine Medical Center cares for patients with major injuries, many of whom will require a transfusion.
Other patients who may require transfusions include those with cancer or who are undergoing chemotherapy. In this situation, the body is unable to produce sufficient quantities of red blood cells, platelets and other cells because of the underlying disease or effects of its treatment. Transfusions help to support our patients through these difficult times.
Premature infants, perhaps our most vulnerable population, are cared for in the neonatal intensive care unit. When transfusion becomes necessary for these patients, specialized products are frequently needed. Special testing is often performed to ensure the appropriate blood component needs are met for these especially fragile patients.
Our priority: your safety and comfort
Our priority is to make sure your blood donation experience is safe, comfortable and fun.
Safety is always foremost on our mind. This applies to you the donor, as well as to the person who will be receiving your lifesaving blood or platelet donation. All supplies used in the donation process are sterile and used only once. If you have any questions about this, please feel free to ask any of our medical staff.