When we think of blood donation, the first thing that comes to mind is whole human blood. It is one of the most vital resources in modern healthcare and plays a life-saving role in emergencies and critical treatments.
Unlike blood components (such as plasma, platelets, or red cells), whole blood contains all essential elements—red cells, white cells, platelets, and plasma—making it a powerful gift for patients in urgent need.
What Is Whole Human Blood?
Whole blood is blood collected directly from a donor in its natural form, without separating its components. It is usually used in emergency situations where patients experience rapid blood loss, such as:
Severe trauma or accidents
Severe trauma or accidents
Massive internal bleeding
Natural disasters and war injuries
How Long Can Whole Blood Be Stored?
Whole human blood is particularly crucial because:
Whole blood can be stored for up to 35–42 days depending on the anticoagulant solution used. However, due to high demand, donated blood rarely remains unused for long.
Who Can Donate Whole Blood?
To donate safely, donors must:
Donors must be between 18 to 65 years old
Donors should weigh at least 50 kg (110 lbs)
A healthy hemoglobin count is essential for safe donation
Free from infections like HIV, Hepatitis B/C, Syphilis, and Malaria
How You Can Help
Donating whole blood is safe, simple, and takes less than 20 minutes. By choosing to donate, you are giving someone the gift of life—a chance to recover, to smile, and to live again.
At Jeevan Rekha Hospital Blood Centre, we encourage every eligible individual to step forward and become a blood donor. Your small act of kindness can create a big impact.