Donating plasma is a selfless act of giving that helps countless individuals with rare, chronic or genetic conditions live healthier lives. The plasma you donate is used to make plasma-derived therapies that fight infections, promote healing and manage symptoms.
While donating plasma is a selfless act that ultimately helps those in need, there’s also a potential benefit for you, the donor. Some plasma centers, such as ABO Plasma, offer plasma donation money as a token of appreciation for donors’ time and contribution.
If it’s your first time, you’re likely wondering how to prepare for plasma donation and what steps you can take to ensure a swift and stress-free recovery. We’ve prepared this helpful guide to equip you with everything to know about plasma donation preparation and recovery.
How Plasma Donation Works
Before you become a plasma donor, knowing how the process works is essential. Plasma is the liquid part of the blood composed of water, salt, antibodies, enzymes, clotting factors and proteins.
When you donate plasma, an apheresis machine separates the plasma from whole blood. The rest of the components of whole blood – red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets—are returned to your body.
The process is safe, quick, and relatively painless so that you can donate confidently.
How to Prepare for Plasma Donation
To ensure a successful and easy donation process, follow these simple steps before heading to the donation center.
1. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Adequate sleep is critical in maintaining a healthy immune system and overall well-being. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep the night before your plasma donation to ensure you feel refreshed and energetic the next day.
To improve your sleep quality, try creating a bedtime routine that includes activities like reading or taking a warm bath, keeping the room cool and dark, and avoiding caffeine or heavy meals close to bedtime.
2. Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining blood volume and ensuring a smooth plasma donation process. Drinking enough water can also help prevent side effects like dizziness and lightheadedness during the donation.
Opt for water, clear juices and other non-caffeinated beverages. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks, as they can lead to dehydration and disqualify you from donating plasma.
3. Eat a Balanced Meal
Consuming a nutritious meal before donating plasma gives your body the energy to go through the process comfortably. Additionally, it helps maintain stable blood sugar levels so you won’t feel shaky, tired or lightheaded during the donation.
4. Bring Necessary Documents and Identification
To donate plasma, you may need specific documents, such as a valid photo ID, proof of address and your social security number or immigration card. Check with your chosen plasma donation center for specific requirements.
Additionally, verify your eligibility before you make an appointment or walk into a donation center.
Factors such as age, weight and medical history can impact your ability to donate. Reach out to your chosen plasma donation center or review their requirements online beforehand to ensure a smooth and successful donation experience.
Recovering From Plasma Donation
While plasma donation can have some side effects, they’re typically mild and temporary. Following the tips below can help minimize these side effects so you can recover quickly and return to your usual activities as soon as possible.
Replenish Fluids
After plasma donation, it’s vital to replenish the fluids you have lost during the process. Drink plenty of water or other hydrating beverages, such as sports drinks or coconut water, to help replace the fluids lost during donation. Aim to drink an extra 16 to 32 ounces of water in the 24 hours following your donation.
Limit Caffeine and Alcohol Intake
As mentioned, caffeine and alcohol can be dehydrating. It’s best to limit or avoid consuming these beverages after donating plasma.
Eat a Nutritious Meal
The process of plasma donation temporarily reduces the iron in your blood. So, after donating, it’s essential to consume iron-rich foods such as red meat, beans, fish and fortified cereals. These will help replenish your body’s iron stores and aid in recovery.
Take It Easy for the First 24 Hours
After donating plasma, you may feel a little weak or tired. It’s essential to give your body time to recover by taking it easy for the first 24 hours after plasma donation. Limit heavy exercise or physically demanding tasks, and ensure you get a good night’s sleep to help your body recuperate.
Donate at ABO Plasma for a Rewarding Experience
By following the steps in this article, you can be confident that you’re taking the right measures to prepare for your donation as well as to recover and support your body after giving plasma.
Donating plasma is a gift that rewards both the recipient and the giver. At ABO Plasma in Orem, we recognize the contribution you make by donating your time and plasma. That’s why we offer plasma donation compensation as a token of our appreciation. This compensation can help you achieve your financial goals, offset everyday expenses or even make a charitable donation – all while helping those in need.
View our donor checklist to determine your eligibility, and book an appointment for your first donation at ABO Plasma today. Alternatively, if you’ve donated with us before, please drop by. We gladly accept walk-ins.