Plasma donation is similar to blood donation. However, there are a few more rules that plasma centers and donors must follow for the procedure. If you are giving plasma for the first time, you will also undergo a private physical examination from a certified center medical specialist. Answering medical history questions, testing for viruses like HIV and hepatitis, and analyzing your protein and hemoglobin levels are all part of the pre-donation physical.
In the following paragraph, you will find more information on plasma center requirements, rules, and other important details when it comes to donating plasma.
Requirements
Donors must be between the ages of 18 and 65, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in excellent health. For documentation, they must also possess a photo ID, visa or passport, social security card or border crossing card, and evidence of address in their name. They can also submit the following as proof:
- A bank statement from the previous three months
- A billing statement from the previous three months
- College enrollment verification
- A postmarked piece of mail
- A driver’s license from the previous three months
You will have to let the plasma center know if you’ve had a body piercing, tattoo, or tattoo touch-up in the last 12 months, so they can let you know when you’re eligible to contribute again. Keep in mind that before donating blood or plasma, you should usually wait a year after getting a tattoo.
Additionally, you need to receive a physical test at least once a year to ensure that you are in excellent health. If it’s been more than six months since your last physical exam, you’ll need to reapply.
Time It Takes to Donate
A physical examination, extensive medical screening and testing, and verification of donor identification and local address are all part of the first plasma donation. In addition to these procedures, donor verification, and testing, return contributions typically take one and a half to two hours.
Frequency of Donation
Plasmapheresis is a method that experts use to take your plasma during donation. It is a sterile, self-contained, automated procedure for separating plasma from other cellular components and returning the plasma to the donor. This procedure allows you to donate plasma more frequently than blood.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States allows two donations in a seven-day period, with at least 48 hours between them. For example, if you make a donation on Tuesday, you can make another donation on Thursday.
Additional Tips
You should prepare yourself by eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of water on the day you want to donate. On the day before and the day of your donation, consume six to eight cups of water or juice.
Avoid eating fatty meals like french fries, potato chips, pizza, or sweets on the day you donate plasma. Instead, have a protein-rich, iron-rich meal no more than three hours before giving. These pointers can help you qualify for plasma donation and expedite the process.
Conclusion
Plasma donation is a simple process. However, most plasma centers are chilly to keep body temperature from rising. If you’re uncomfortable with the cold, prepare to bring layers of clothing to keep you warm.
After your first donation, the procedure takes about 45 minutes, so consider how you’d like to spend that time. You can bring a book, a study guide, or a video to help you kill time. Even better, make a plasma donation with a friend. You’ll be able to keep each other company and calm your anxiety.
If you want to give plasma donation in New Jersey, thplasma is a reliable plasma center you can trust. We are all about community, and we’re driven by innovation. Our services are guided by genuine care for our donors and employees. Check out our Become a Donor page to know how you can proceed with your donation.