Plasma is a yellowish, liquid substance that is part of the approximately 5.5 liters of blood we have in our body. Through a process called plasmapheresis, you can donate part of your plasma to help pharmaceutical companies produce products to prevent and treat diseases such as rubella, measles, hepatitis B, tetanus and rabies. Furthermore, plasma is useful for haemophilia and for some immune system disorders. Some collection centers may collect plasma for cosmetics and other consumer goods. The coordinator of the collection center can tell you how the plasma will be used.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Prepare for the Donation
Step 1. Determine if you are eligible to donate plasma
- All plasma donors must be at least 18 years of age. Some donation centers have a maximum age, which usually ranges from 55 to 65 years.
- A plasma donor must weigh at least 50 pounds.
- Since plasma is used for medical treatment, you need to be in good health and not taking any medications. Insulin-dependent diabetes, HIV, Hepatitis, a history of heart disease or cancer, are all medical conditions that do not allow you to donate plasma. Pregnant women cannot donate plasma for at least six weeks after giving birth. People with tattoos or piercings are not eligible to donate for 12 months after getting tattoos or retouching.
Step 2. Stay hydrated
Drink water or fruit juice the day before you donate your plasma and on the day of your blood collection.
Step 3. Eat a nutritious meal at least two hours before donating
High-fat meals can cause a condition known as high-fat plasma, which will prevent you from being able to donate that day. Wholemeal bread or pasta, lean meat, fruit and vegetables are ideal foods.
Step 4. Bring two identification documents with you for the donation center
Generally an identification document and health card. In the United States, a Social Security card must be presented. In some other countries, an invoice with your name and address is sufficient.
Part 2 of 3: Donate the Plasma
Step 1. Take a short follow-up visit
The center staff will ask you for a urine sample. You will need to answer a few questions about your medical history and step on the scales. The staff will check the iron levels through a blood sample taken with a prick of the finger. A staff member will take your blood pressure, listen to your heart, and check your lungs and reflexes.
Step 2. Prepare to receive a needle in the curvature of the arm
When you donate plasma, it flows into a centrifuge through a needle in the curvature of your arm. The blood then passes through a centrifuge, which separates the red blood cells from the plasma. The plasma goes into a collection container, while the blood is returned to your body through the same needle. This process will take an hour or two on average.
Part 3 of 3: Leaving the Donation Center
Step 1. Keep the puncture dressing bandage for at least one hour after completing your donation
The bandage allows the sting to heal. In some cases, the center staff may ask you to leave the bandage on for longer, depending on the flow of your blood circulation.
Step 2. Eat a meal, stay hydrated and take it easy after donation
Some donors experience dizziness, vertigo, weakness or nausea. This is partly due to the loss of fluids during the donation process.
