Two critically ill patients at UNC Hospitals are in urgent need of platelets. The hospital is appealing to the public for donations.

The procedure for donating platelets is similar to that for donating whole blood. During the donation, which lasts about two and a half hours, the platelets are extracted from the blood, and the donor's red and white blood cells as well as the majority of platelets are returned to the donor. Platelets are good for five days, so the need is constant.

Donor requirements:
*Must weigh at least 110 pounds and be at least 17 years old.
*Need photo I.D.
*Must undergo a brief physical screening, like that required of blood donors
*Any travel outside the U.S. and Canada must be explained
*Must provide information in advance about any medications you are taking
*Must be feeling well the day of donation and for three days prior.

Platelets are typically given to patients with cancer, liver disease, transplanted organs, premature babies, trauma and burn patients and patients undergoing open-heart surgery.

To schedule a donation appointment, please call 919-966-2370.