#United States #San Diego #Blood Donation #QuidelOrtho #Transfusion Medicine

Strengthening the Blood Supply: Awareness, Challenges, and the Vital Role of Donors

QuidelOrtho Corporation, a prominent name in in vitro diagnostics, has recently presented episode 55 of its podcast, "Science Bytes". In this episode, host Josh Casey speaks with Michelle Mullens, the Global Portfolio Marketing Manager for Transfusion Medicine. With her extensive background in blood banking and immunohematology, Mullens highlights the contemporary strains on blood supplies and the imperative of consistent donor participation.

The Pressures of Modern Blood Supply

Blood banks are currently facing unprecedented pressures that threaten the stability of blood supply. A variety of factors contribute to these challenges:

• - Emergencies and Routine Demands: Everyday emergencies such as trauma and traffic accidents, coupled with an increase in climate-related disasters, have led to a fluctuating demand for blood products. This unpredictable surge complicates the already delicate balance of supply and demand.
• - Rising Pressure on Universal Donors: Blood types in high demand, especially O-type units — essential for many transfusions — are under intense pressure due to the adoption of prehospital low-titer whole blood programs. This shift necessitates targeted recruitment strategies and meticulous inventory management to ensure that the right blood type is available when needed.
• - Automation as a Solution: QuidelOrtho has implemented standardized, high-throughput immunohematology platforms designed to enhance the safety and consistency of blood supply management. These advancements allow healthcare professionals to maintain operational continuity during periods of increased demand and refocus their efforts on complex clinical cases.

Every Donor Counts

Mullens emphasizes that every blood type is crucial in maintaining both immediate transfusion needs and the necessary diagnostic reagents required for safe blood transfusions. The episode discusses how consistent and reliable donations throughout the year are paramount for ensuring safety in patient care across healthcare settings.

Evolving Practices Shaped by External Factors

In this podcast episode, listeners will discover how evolving clinical practices, climatic disruptions, and ongoing demand for blood products compete to shape the modern blood supply landscape. Mullens and Casey provide insights into the interdependent ecosystem that links blood donors, medical diagnostics, and patient care.

The podcast serves as an important reminder of the collective responsibility to support blood donation initiatives to ensure that all patient needs are met, no matter the circumstances. Regular donations not only guarantee a ready supply but also contribute significantly to long-term patient care safety.

The Importance of Year-Round Donations

Maintaining a dependable and robust blood supply is a continuous endeavor. QuidelOrtho's focus on encouraging donor participation ensures that the healthcare system remains resilient in the face of fluctuating demands and emergencies. Mullens highlights the integral role of robust engagement strategies aimed at attracting and retaining donors throughout the year. This emphasis on donor commitment is essential for building a stable blood supply and ultimately safeguarding patient health.

The latest episode of QuidelOrtho's "Science Bytes" podcast showcases pivotal discussions regarding the modern challenges faced by blood donation efforts. Available on major streaming platforms, it serves as a valuable resource for understanding the critical role donors play in healthcare.

For those interested, additional information and episodes can be found on the QuidelOrtho website at QuidelOrtho Science Bytes.

About QuidelOrtho Corporation

QuidelOrtho is recognized for its comprehensive expertise across clinical chemistry, immunoassay technology, immunohematology, and molecular testing. As a leader in diagnostic solutions, the corporation is committed to delivering fast, accurate, and reliable results that positively impact patient outcomes, from clinical settings to hospitals. Their legacy is built on continuous innovation and dedication to advancing diagnostics that connect insights with solutions for informed decision-making and superior patient care.