Plasma donation is a great way to give back to your community. Through regular donations, you can impact the health and well-being of patients and contribute to medical research for plasma-based treatments.
If you’ve ever considered donating plasma but aren’t quite sure what it entails, here is a quick guide to what you can expect throughout the donation process.
How Does Plasma Donation Work?
There are several stages in the plasma donation process. Let us break down each stage, the steps it entails, and what you can expect in each part.
Preparing for the Plasma Donation Process
Before you can undergo the plasma donation process and understand, you should check if you meet the eligibility criteria. If you meet the requirements, we encourage you to schedule an appointment at the ABO Plasma – Calexico Donation Center at your earliest convenience. An ABO Plasma staff member will verify your eligibility before you can donate.
As early as 24 hours before your scheduled appointment, you can take steps to ensure you’re prepared for the process of giving plasma. A few essential steps include:
- Prepare Your Documents: Donors must bring a valid government-issued identification and their social security card (or any valid proof of their social security number). You must also bring proof that you live at least within a 50-mile radius of the donation center, such as your latest utility bill, a lease agreement, or a valid ID with your address on it. Non-US residents must present their US Visa and, if applicable, their Border Crossing Card.
- Get Enough Sleep: Ensure you slept at least eight hours the night before your appointment. A good night’s sleep can help you feel more relaxed and comfortable during the extraction.
- Eat Nutritious Meals: Eat a balanced meal before you arrive for your appointment. We recommend food rich in protein, iron, and other essential nutrients to replenish lost nutrients.
- Stay Hydrated: We recommend drinking four to six extra glasses of water up to three hours before your appointment. You can also drink fruit-infused water, fresh fruit juice, and other beverages rich in nutrients and electrolytes.
- Know What To Avoid: Avoid drinking alcohol at least 24 hours before your appointment. Hours before your appointment, avoid caffeinated beverages, as these can affect your blood flow.
The Screening Process
Once you arrive at the plasma donation center, you’ll undergo a thorough screening process to ensure your eligibility to donate. This typically includes:
- Health Questionnaire: You’ll be asked to complete a health questionnaire to assess your medical history, current health status, and potential risk factors.
- Vital Signs Check: A staff member will measure your vital signs, including your blood pressure, pulse, and temperature, to ensure you’re healthy enough to donate.
Plasma Extraction
After you’re deemed eligible to donate, it’s time for the plasma extraction process. Here’s what you can expect:
- Setup: You’ll be comfortably seated in a reclining chair while our qualified team prepares the extraction process. Our staff will insert a sterile needle into your arm vein to collect blood.
- Plasma Extraction: The blood is then passed through a machine that separates the plasma from the other blood components. The plasma is collected in a container, while the other blood components are returned to your body.
- Recuperation: The entire extraction process can take 60 to 90 minutes, depending on factors such as blood flow and how long it takes to collect enough plasma. You may be asked to rest for a few minutes before you leave.
Post-Extraction Recovery
After the giving plasma process is complete, taking care of yourself is important to ensure a smooth recovery. Here are some post-donation tips:
- Rest and Hydrate: After your donation, take some time to rest and hydrate. Drinking plenty of fluids helps replenish your body’s lost fluids and promotes a speedy recovery.
- Avoid Strenuous Activities: Avoid strenuous activities for the remainder of the day to prevent dizziness or fatigue.
- Eat Protein, Iron, and Vitamin C-Rich Food: Eat a nutritious meal that is rich in these nutrients to help replenish your body’s lost nutrients.
Second Donation and Compensation
You can visit the Calexico plasma donation center for your second donation 48 hours after your first one. This gives your body enough time to replenish your plasma levels and minimize the risk of adverse effects on your health.
You don’t have to schedule your second appointment; you can walk in during your donation center’s operating hours. The second donation is much faster than the first since you don’t have to undergo the screening phase.
Donors can expect to receive compensation after their second plasma donation. The first plasma donation will only be used after completing the second donation.
Ready To Become a Hero and Donate Plasma?
Now that we’ve answered “How does plasma donation work?” you may be interested in donating. Plasma donation is a simple yet powerful way to make a positive difference. Compensation aside, donors can look forward to knowing they will go toward causes that save lives and support critical medical research.
If you’re ready to become a plasma donor, schedule your first appointment at the ABO Plasma Calexico Center in your area today.