“Tips” from the University of Colorado Cord Blood Bank to keep in mind…..

Size of Cords….. The most recent CB transplant literature indicates that “bigger” cords are “better” (i.e., rapid engraftment, higher survival): cords > 100 ml (80 ml for donors from minority groups) are requested most often for transplantation Cords < 100 ml will generally not be banked (but may be maintained for research) University of Colorado Cord Blood Bank

Size of Cords….. To maximize the amount of blood collected, please: University of Colorado Cord Blood Bank To maximize the amount of blood collected, please: Minimize the amount of blood extracted for typing before collection (recommendation: only 1/4 of the small cup) Minimize excessive manipulation of the cord and do not apply excessive traction to the cord Allow sufficient time for gravity to help drain the blood into the collection bag Once the cord collapses, allow sufficient time for cessation of the blood flow into the bag before removing the needle

Sterility Issues….. University of Colorado Cord Blood Bank To ensure that the cord blood does not become contaminated during collection, please: Use each of the THREE betadine swab sticks provided in the kit to swab the cord three times. Swab each stick in one direction, only once, so that contaminants are not smeared on the cord. Do not touch the disinfected side of the cord during collection.

Consent and Maternal Questionnaire…… University of Colorado Cord Blood Bank A Cord will be processed for transplantation or used for research if : The consent and maternal questionnaire forms are fully completed and signed and dated by the donor and witness The donor has indicated “no” on medical history questions such as family or personal history of malignancies, recent tattoos , or piercings (within the past 12 months) or travel to certain areas with high risk of infectious diseases (Please note: the cord blood bank will review travel based on current CDC guidelines–so please document the travel dates and the specific city/state/country)

Consistency and Accuracy in Labeling……. University of Colorado Cord Blood Bank Please check the labels on the Cord Blood Units and make sure that all information on the labels is complete and consistent with the information on the forms.

Help avoid clotting…. Please make sure to University of Colorado Cord Blood Bank Please make sure to thoroughly mix the blood with the anti-coagulants during the in-utero gravity procedure* *The good news is that we never find clots from CB sent from our collection partners!!!

Thank you so much for your help in collecting Cord Blood! Sincerely, The University of Colorado Cord Blood Bank (UCCBB)