Annual Blood Drive
Dear Parents,
Saint Thomas Academy will host the annual Blood Drive on March 22, 2012 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Blood Drive will be held at the STA gymnasium. This letter is to inform you that your son may be asked to donate blood by his classmates. If your son is 17 years of age, or older, (16-years-old students may donate with a signed Red Cross parental/guardian consent form), meets the new weight and height requirements, and is in good health, he is eligible to donate.
Before donating, the students will be asked information regarding their health by one of the Red Cross staff. The student’s blood pressure, pulse and temperature will be checked along with a small blood sample to make sure the student is not anemic. The actual donation takes approximately ten minutes to fill the pint size bag of blood, which is less than one-tenth of the student’s total blood volume. After the student donates, he will be given some refreshments. The body will replace the fluid lost within hours. The students return to class after the entire process is complete, approximately one hour.
While the donation process is safe, reactions can occur. Most reactions are mild and can include fainting or small bruises. If your son experiences a reaction of fainting, dizziness or not feeling well, you will be called. It may be necessary for you to come to school and pick up your child from the gym.
If you decide to give your son permission to donate blood, it is recommended that he follow these guidelines to ensure a positive experience:
• Get a good night’s sleep before the blood drive
• Eat well and drink plenty of fluids in the days leading up to the blood drive, especially the day
of the blood drive. Don't skip meals!
• Drink at least 16 oz. of caffeine-free fluid three to four hours before and after donation
• Drink water within 20-30 minutes of the donation to lessen the chance of dizziness
The students are required to have permission from their teachers in order to miss class. We also encourage students to talk to their coaches if they are participating in a high school sport.
Please call the Health Office at 651-683-1545 if you have any question or concerns. This is a wonderful opportunity for the students to be actively involved in helping those in need.
Thank you,
Lucy Poole RN, MSN
