Second semester blood drive

Happy Tuesday! Today is the blood drawing day for any students who signed up to donate to the blood drive.

Donating blood and participating in the blood drive has a lot of potential to help a lot of people. Those with rare or common blood types should especially consider donating.

"Donating blood is very important because it helps people," said Mrs. Coffelt, the nurse at PHS.

"Blood is used for lots of different traumas and surgeries, and there always seems to be a low supply. Donating blood, especially when you have a universal blood type or a unique blood type is super helpful in keeping the donations up. O- is universal and A and B blood types are harder to come by."

The process of drawing blood may seem intimidating, but it is rather simple in actuality. It is almost akin to a regular doctor's office visit with a few extra steps.

"Typically, they will check your vitals and your iron to make sure you have enough iron," said Coffelt.

"They make sure everything is okay and ask you questions about your medical history. Once you donate, they will draw blood by putting a tourniquet on and using a needle, then you just have to wait while the blood syphons out."

To any who plan to get their blood drawn but feel nervous, nurse Coffelt said not to worry.

"As long as you relax, it should not hurt," she said.

"The most important things the day before getting your blood drawn are to hydrate well by drinking lots of fluids, and eating a good, protein-filled breakfast."

Story by Aria Glover