The UMANS group draws a strong turnout for those giving the gift of life.
Photo: From left, UMANS volunteers Benz Aponesto, Joseph Alminagor, RyanBrian Mbanga, Ruth Beyene, Georgie Anna Beharie, Phoebert Cubangay, Julie Aynes, Dhenise Manlagnit, Courtney Cohen, and Aaliyah Atoigue
The University of Maryland Association of Nursing Students (UMANS), the University of Maryland’s chapter of the National Student Nurses’ Association at the Universities at Shady Grove (USG) in Rockville, Md., partnered with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive Nov. 4 at USG and exceeded the group’s goals in number of pints collected.
With the help of nursing students who volunteered, the event went smoothly. Of the 54 individuals who arrived to donate blood, 10 were first-time donors. Seven donors were deferred, which is normal for any blood drive, according to the American Red Cross.
In all, 41 pints of blood and 9 pints of red blood cells were collected for a total of 50 pints collected, exceeding UMANS' goal of 40. According to the American Red Cross, 50 pints is equivalent to 132 potential lives saved.
Nursing students were divided into two main teams. One team was designated to the registration table, while the other team was assigned to the recovery area, ensuring blood donors sat for 15 minutes and had a light snack and something to drink to replenish lost blood volume. Free graphic T-shirts also were offered to donors.
The registration team was tasked with signing people up and ensuring appropriate forms were filled out. The blood drive was promoted via flyers, shared on social media via Instagram, and emails blasted to encourage students and faculty to sign up during their free time. Students — specially leaders of student organizations —also were encouraged to spread word about the drive.