JOOTRH Minimizes Blood Shortages

Story by Sherine Atieno and Dennise Akinyi Photos by Ondari Ogega Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) is minimizing blood shortages following the successful launch of its in-house blood bank on April 25, 2025. In less than two months, the facility has collected an impressive 449 pints of blood, a milestone in its quest to ensure a consistent and reliable supply of life-saving blood for patients. Despite temporary challenges such as limited personnel, inadequate machines, and resource constraints for storage and preparation, the hospital has demonstrated remarkable progress. Once fully equipped through funding and additional support, the unit will run its own testing and processing, reducing reliance on the Regional Blood Transfusion Centre adjacent to the hospital. Located at the former Accident and Trauma Unit (Casualty), the facility now operates weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with plans underway to make it a 24-hour service center. The space is spacious, well-ventilated, and conducive for blood donation — an environment that encourages both comfort and safety for donors. Blood donors are walking in daily to contribute to this lifesaving cause. JOOTRH is now calling on staff, students, stakeholders, and the broader community to step forward and donate blood. This effort is not only vital for the general patient population but could one day save the life of a friend, relative, or loved one. All hospital wards rely on blood transfusions, making a continuous stock crucial. Eligible donors are individuals aged between 16 and 65 years. After donation, the blood is screened for safety and then stored at varying temperatures depending on its components. Red blood cells are kept at 1–6°C in specialized refrigerators, platelets at 20–24°C with constant agitation, and plasma is frozen below –18°C. To show appreciation, all donors are provided with refreshments post-donation. The hospital extends heartfelt gratitude to the 15 dedicated medical officer interns have been on the frontline to champion the initiative as well as to the selfless volunteers whose donations continue to save lives.

JOOTRH Minimizes Blood Shortages

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