The Red Cross Declares Blood Crisis For First Time

The American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis due to dangerously low blood supplies, the first in over a decade. Hospitals are postponing surgeries, and the Red Cross reports a 34% decline in new donors. Blood donation is safe, even during COVID-19, and the Red Cross is offering incentives like Super Bowl tickets to encourage donations. Expert Dr. Claudia Cohen highlights staffing shortages and donor fatigue as key issues. The shortage could lead to severe health consequences, and hospitals are struggling to manage patient care amid the crisis.

What prompted the American Red Cross to declare a national blood crisis?

• A surplus of blood supply

• An increase in blood donations

• Dangerously low blood supplies

• A decrease in hospital surgeries

What percentage of the nation's blood supply is provided by the American Red Cross?

• 80%

• 60%

• 40%

• 20%

Why is blood donation considered safe during the COVID-19 pandemic?

• Blood is tested for COVID-19

• Donors are required to be vaccinated

• Blood donation centers are closed

• COVID-19 is a respiratory virus and not transmitted through blood

What are the two main reasons for the depletion of blood supplies according to Dr. Claudia Cohen?

• Increased demand and natural disasters

• Staffing shortages and donor fatigue

• Technological failures and policy changes

• Economic downturn and political unrest

Which blood type is considered universal and most needed during the crisis?

• Type B

• Type AB

• Type O

• Type A

What could happen if the blood shortage continues?

• Patients may face life-threatening situations

• Hospitals will have excess blood

• Blood prices will decrease

• Blood donation will be banned

How are hospitals managing the blood shortage during the pandemic?

• By increasing the number of surgeries

• By turning away patients due to lack of resources

• By importing blood from other countries

• By reducing the number of staff