If you’re considering donating plasma, you probably have a lot of questions. Here’s everything you need to know about plasma donation, from how it’s done to what the benefits are.
What is Plasma?
Plasma is the liquid component of your blood. It’s what your red and white blood cells, platelets, and other cells float around in. Plasma is made up of water, enzymes, electrolytes, antibodies, and other proteins.
What is Plasma Donation?
Plasma donation is the process of removing plasma from your blood and giving it to someone who needs it. Plasma is used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including:
- Hemophilia
- Hepatitis C
- Immune deficiencies
- Shock
- Burns
Plasma donation is a type of blood donation. However, it’s different from giving whole blood or giving red blood cells.
When you give plasma, your blood is drawn, and then the plasma is separated from the other blood components. The plasma is then collected in a special bag. The rest of your blood is returned to your body through the needle in your arm.
This process is called plasmapheresis. It takes about an hour to donate plasma.
Who Can Donate Plasma?
You may be able to donate plasma if you:
- Are in good health
- Are at least 18 years old (16 or 17 years old with parental consent)
- Weigh at least 110 pounds
- Have had no tattoos or body piercings within the last 12 months
- Have not had a blood transfusion in the last 12 months
- Have not had certain types of cancer
- Have not had a recent surgery
- Have not had a recent piercing or tattoo
- Are not pregnant or breastfeeding
- Are not taking certain medications
- Are not infected with HIV, hepatitis, or other bloodborne diseases
You will be asked to fill out a health history questionnaire when you arrive to donate plasma. A staff member will review your answers and determine if you’re eligible to donate.
Benefits of Donating Plasma
Donating plasma is a good way to help others, but it has some benefits for you as well.
1. Free Health Screenings
When you donate plasma, you’re also getting a free health screening. Donors are typically asked to provide a blood sample so that staff can test it for certain bloodborne diseases. Your blood will also be tested to ensure it has enough iron to donate.
2. Help Others
When you donate plasma, you’re helping others who may be suffering from a serious illness or injury. Plasma products are used to help treat people with conditions that affect the blood and immune system, such as hemophilia and immune deficiencies. Other plasma products are used to treat burn and shock patients.
3. Earn Extra Money
Most plasma donation centers pay donors for their plasma. The amount you’ll be paid will vary depending on the center and the current market price for plasma. Some centers offer first-time donors a bonus, and some offer loyalty programs that allow donors to earn more money the more they donate.
How to Prepare for a Plasma Donation
Donating plasma is a simple process, but there are a few things you should do to prepare.
1. Eat a Healthy Meal
It’s important to eat a healthy meal before you donate. Eating a nutritious meal can help you feel better during and after the donation. Eating a meal with protein and iron can also help you feel stronger.
2. Drink Plenty of Fluids
It’s important to drink plenty of fluids before and after you donate plasma. Drinking fluids helps you stay hydrated and can help you feel better after the donation.
3. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep before you donate can help you feel better during and after the donation.
4. Bring ID
You’ll need to bring some form of ID to the donation center. Most centers accept a driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
5. Bring a Friend
You can bring a friend or family member with you to the donation center. Having someone with you can make the experience more enjoyable.
Conclusion
Donating plasma is a great way to help others in need while also earning some extra money. Although the process may seem a bit daunting at first, it is actually quite simple and only takes a few minutes. Plus, you can usually donate plasma twice a week, so it’s a great way to make a regular contribution to the community. If you’re interested in giving back and earning some extra cash, plasma donation is a great option.
thplasma is a plasma donation center in New Jersey proudly steeped in community, driven by innovation, and guided by genuine care for our donors. We treat every employee and donor as part of our family, sharing our passion for saving lives. Help others and donate plasma for cash today!