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Saving humanity with one bag of platelets at a time
fords - number 1 all over heaven Started conversation Jun 15, 2012
So, apheresis, aka donating platelets - what a doddle! 
The machine you get hooked up to looks like a dialysis machine and it's a similar procedure. As it was my first time I got to take it easy with a 45 minute session (the average time is usually last 80-90 minutes). Today I gave plasma and platelets, but they can also take full donations to include red blood cells.
The procedure is very similar to a normal blood donation in that they stick a needle in your arm and make you comfy, but this time the blood's routed through a big machine and the stuff they want is harvested into another bag while the blood is returned back into the body. Everything is on show and for those of us that aren't squeamish, it's quite fun to watch the whole process happen right there in front of you!
The best bit though is that instead of moving into the little canteen bit for tea and biscuits, the staff bring you a big plate of nice things with a mug of your preferred beverage. They even unwrap the biccies as you're not allowed to move your arm - luxury! They also have wifi at the Edinburgh centre so next time I might just take the laptop in and blog live 
Saving humanity with one bag of platelets at a time
Z Posted Jun 15, 2012
Good work 
You know I don't believe we've got an entry on donating platlets.. 
..
Saving humanity with one bag of platelets at a time
Z Posted Jun 15, 2012
Good work
You know I don't believe we've got an entry on donating platlets.. ..You could write one whilst donating.
Saving humanity with one bag of platelets at a time
fords - number 1 all over heaven Posted Jun 15, 2012
Is that so? 
Well it has been a while since I've written one....
Saving humanity with one bag of platelets at a time
Vestboy Posted Jun 16, 2012
Platelet: A small plate specifically used for holding foil wrapped biccies for donors.
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Saving humanity with one bag of platelets at a time
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