Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (Feb. 13, 2023) — The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada is celebrating National Phlebotomists Recognition Week, Feb. 13-17, by honoring the dedicated team of local phlebotomists who play a critical role in helping ensure lifesaving blood is available to patients in need.
As the provider of nearly half the nation’s blood supply, the Red Cross collects, tests, and distributes over 5 million units a year. “This would not be possible without the hard work of our dedicated phlebotomists,” said Dr. Walter Kelley, Divisional Chief Medical Officer for the Pacific, Rocky Mountain, and Southwest Divisions of the American Red Cross.
“Phlebotomist professionals ensure blood draws go smoothly and safely while interacting with and supporting the donors,” Dr. Kelley said. “They are a vital connection between blood donors and the recipients of lifesaving transfusions.”
Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. “With the help of volunteer blood donors, we are able to make blood products available across the country,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “Volunteer donation is the only way to get transfusable blood for medical treatments, and Red Cross phlebotomists help create a positive experience for donors, along with safeguarding their health.”
National Phlebotomists Recognition Week comes as the Red Cross has seen many weather- and illness-related blood drive cancelations across the country, threatening the nation’s blood supply. “We depend on the more than 25 Red Cross phlebotomists in Southern Nevada and 5,500 nationwide to help provide lifesaving blood to those who need it,” Flanigan said, “and this year their challenge is bigger than ever.”
Third Annual Phlebotomists Recognition Week
Established by the American Medical Technologists (AMT), Phlebotomists Recognition Week recognizes and celebrates phlebotomists’ vital role in maintaining patient health and promoting lab efficiency and effectiveness.
Support your community by giving blood and time
Schedule a blood donation appointment today by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Become a volunteer blood donor ambassador at Red Cross blood drives, helping greet, check-in, and thank blood donors to ensure they have a positive donation experience. Or become a transportation specialist, playing a vital role in ensuring lifesaving blood products are delivered to hospitals.
For more information and to sign up for a volunteer position, contact Bonnie Cook at bonnie.cook@redcross.org or 702-268-3207 or visit RedCross.org/volunteertoday.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
