Plasma is a valuable substance that can’t be replicated in a lab. As a result, plasma donations are always in demand for treatments and therapies that can save lives. This is why our plasma donation centers welcome first-time donors to see if they’re suitable candidates for plasma donation.
If you’re donating plasma for the first time, it’s normal to have plenty of questions in mind. Here’s a guide to help you understand what to expect during your first plasma donation process.
What Happens During Plasma Donation?
Plasma donation involves a process called “plasmapheresis.” During the extraction process, a machine separates plasma from your blood cells. The plasma is then stored while your blood cells flow back into your body. Unlike blood donations, you can donate plasma more frequently as your body quickly replenishes plasma back into your bloodstream.
However, only some people are qualified to donate. Before you can get to the extraction process and donate plasma in our Otay Mesa facility, you must be an eligible plasma donor, prepare for your extraction, and undergo a strict screening process to ensure your safety. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the plasma donation process, so you can trust that the process is safe and unlikely to result in adverse reactions after donating.
Plasma donations can be a rewarding experience for qualified donors. On top of knowing your actions will impact the lives of others, you will also be financially compensated for your donation.
Who Can Donate Plasma?
Before you can donate plasma, you have to meet the minimum requirements for all donors:
- In good health at the time of your donation
- Weight of at least 110 lbs (49.9 kg)
- Aged 18 to 65 years old
Additionally, we require individuals to meet these requirements to donate plasma in our Otay Mesa facility:
- Have a permanent address within a 30-mile radius of our Otay Mesa Center
- Have valid identification
- Didn’t receive piercings or tattoos in the last four months
How To Donate Plasma If You’re a First-Time Donor
Follow these steps to ensure a smooth plasma donation process when you visit our Otay Mesa facility.
1. Book Your Appointment
First-time donors should schedule their appointment since your first donation will require a screening physical. Once you’ve become a repeat donor or have donated in the last four months, you can walk into our donation center any time to donate.
2. Prepare for Your Appointment
Use these tips to make your appointment as easy and as comfortable as possible:
- Get Enough Sleep: Have around eight hours of sleep the night before your appointment.
- Drink Water: Ensure that you’re well-hydrated before your donation. This can help your body replenish your plasma and offset the loss of blood volume during the extraction.
- Eat Healthy: Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages in the days leading to your appointment. You can eat meals or a snack hours before donating – we recommend a meal rich in protein and iron.
- Prepare Your Documents: Bring a valid government-issued identification, proof of your social security card number, and proof of residency. If you reside outside the United States, you must provide your U.S. Visa or a government ID.
- Dress for Comfort: We want you to be as comfortable as possible during the extraction. Wearing short sleeves can make the extraction process more manageable.
3. Check-in for Your Appointment
Head to our Otay Mesa plasma center and check in with our staff. They’ll look at your documents and ensure you meet the minimum requirements for plasma donation. You’ll also have to provide additional information, such as your payment account.
4. Undergo Screening and Physical Examination
All donors must undergo a health screening process. This ensures that you are in good health and can safely donate. Expect our team to check your vital signs, blood pressure, pulse, and temperature. We may also ask for a blood sample.
Next, first-time donors must undergo a physical exam. A trained medical specialist will conduct a confidential physical exam at least once a year to ensure you’re in good physical health.
5. Plasma Donation
After passing the screening and medical exam, a qualified staff member will start the extraction process and connect you to a plasmapheresis machine. The machine separates your blood and plasma and then returns the remaining materials to your body. This process takes around an hour.
6. Recovery
After extraction, donors are asked to stay up to 15 minutes to recover. You’ll be given fluids to help you stay hydrated. After your recovery period, you’re free to leave and travel home.
7. Second Donation
Plasma donations can only be used after your second donation. The FDA requires donors to return for a second donation at least 48 hours after their first procedure. You don’t have to schedule an appointment on your second visit.
Become a Lifesaver and Donate Plasma!
Donating plasma takes a few hours of your day, but its impact on patients needing plasma will be significant. At ABO Plasma’s donation centers, you can trust our qualified staff to ensure your comfort and safety while donating to a noble cause.
Schedule your appointment and become a plasma donor today.