“The shortage is critical, and one pint can potentially save three lives. It’s an incredible feeling knowing you can do that.” Blood donation is a small act that makes a huge impact. According to Our Blood Institute, in the U.S., someone needs blood every two seconds.  

January is National Blood Donor Month, and while it is a time to recognize the lifesaving generosity of blood donors, it is also an opportunity to highlight the individual training to safely collect those donations. Through classes like Phlebotomy, Medical Assisting, and Advanced Health Careers, students learn essential skills for collecting and handling blood donations. Central Tech also hosts multiple blood drives each year to support community needs.  

Before the drive, students help recruit donors and register them. During the Central Tech blood drives, Advanced Health Careers students staff the sign-in table and serve as runners for ice packs, drinks, and snacks. They also receive training on how to respond if a donor begins to feel faint or loses consciousness.  

“We learn how to glove and wash your hands properly, and we learn what to do if someone passes out,” said Jacelyn Henigh, an Advanced Health Careers Student from Mannford High School. She added that students practice working with a variety of patient types, including children, teenagers, and adults. 

“It gives us the skills and training to get ready for the real world,” said Lanie Wells, an Advanced Health Careers Student from Stroud High School. “You get to see the actual things that can happen.” 

Wells emphasized the importance of blood donation. “Transfusions are a lot more common than people think. It’s a constant need.” She also shared appreciation for Central Tech’s support of the drives: “It shows they care about hosting this and about helping us gain the hands-on experience we need, instead of just hearing about it in a book.” 

Advanced Health Careers Insructor Brand Fisher encourages more people to donate. “It doesn’t take long, and it’s just a quick pinch,” she said. “The shortage is critical, and one pint can potentially save three lives. It’s an incredible feeling knowing you can do that.” Blood donation is a small act that makes a huge impact. According to Our Blood Institute, in the U.S., someone needs blood every two seconds.  

If you are interested in learning more about this career field, Central Tech also offers a Phlebotomy class at both the Drumright and Sapulpa campuses throughout the year.