Red Cross honors biomedical team during Medical Laboratory Professionals Week
The American Red Cross of Northern Nevada is honoring the outstanding contributions of our laboratory team during the 51st anniversary of Medical Laboratory Professionals Week, celebrated from April 19-25 this year, according to a statement by the Red Cross.
The specialized work of medical laboratory professionals is integral for every blood donation that is collected. Once the donation is complete, the Red Cross laboratory staff perform rigorous testing on the donated blood to guarantee its safety for transfusions.
These experts also play a role in diagnosing diseases, supporting treatments and saving lives. This annual observance recognizes the essential role of laboratory professionals in healthcare, particularly in ensuring the safety and availability of the nation’s blood supply.
“Our laboratory teams are the backbone of every lifesaving blood donation,” said Bridget Posson, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Nevada Chapter. “They work tirelessly to test and prepare blood so patients can receive the care they need, whenever they need it.”
Expanding community impact and blood safety
Across the country, the Red Cross employs more than 2,200 laboratory and manufacturing professionals across 116 labs, manufacturing and distribution facilities to meet the rising demand for blood.
Their efforts directly impact countless lives, from trauma victims and cancer patients to individuals with chronic illnesses. Each year Red Cross laboratory medical professionals help process, test and distribute over 6.3 million blood products.
Celebrate Medical Laboratory Professionals Week by donating blood
The Red Cross of Northern Nevada encourages residents to schedule a blood donation appointment to support a consistent blood supply. Appointments can be conveniently booked through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcross.org/Give-Blood or by calling (800) RED CROSS ((800) 733-2767). If immediate slots are unavailable, donors are encouraged to book future appointments to help maintain a steady blood supply.
About Medical Laboratory Professionals Week
Medical Laboratory Professionals Week, established in 1975 by the American Society for Medical Technology, now known as the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science, celebrates its 51st anniversary this year. Supported by 17 national clinical laboratory organizations, it recognizes the critical contributions of laboratory professionals in healthcare while educating the public about their essential work. This week also serves as a platform to address industry challenges and inspire the next generation of healthcare heroes.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent 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, visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
