Donating plasma is easy and safe
Plasma is collected through a process called plasmapheresis. Whole blood is drawn from the donor and the plasma is separated from the other blood components (red and white blood cells and platelets), which are then returned to the donor. Because the body can replace plasma much more quickly than it can these other components, plasma donors may donate more frequently than whole blood donors.
WHO CAN DONATE?
KEDPLASMA follows the highest standards for plasma collection in order to ensure the safety of our donors as well as the quality and safety of their donation.
Prospective donors must meet the following general requirements:
- Age between 18 and 65years
- Weight at least 50 kg
- Good general health
- Provide a valid and current government issued ID
- Provide proof of residency
Prospective donors are given a thorough physical examination by our medical staff and are interviewed to collect information including past medical history, current medications, travel, tattoos and piercings, and other relevant items. The results of these examinations and laboratory tests determine qualification to donate.
THE STEPS OF PLASMA DONATION
STEP 1 - Check In
All donors must have a valid form of identification ready to present at the reception. We will check your vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, temperature and body weight) and you will receive a questionnaire regarding such matters as your past medical history, your current medications, recent travel abroad and any tatoos or piercings you might have.
STEP 2 – Medical Examination
Our medical staff will confirm your qualification to donate based on your vital signs and the questionnaire. If you become a recurrent donor you will be asked to undergo an additional physical exam and health screening from time to time (every 15 visits, or whenever necessary).
STEP 3 - Plasmapheresis
Immediately before the plasmapheresis starts, the level of the red and white blood cells in your blood will be checked and samples taken for analysis. Afterwards, you will be connected to the plasmapheresis machine. This machine removes whole blood, separates the plasma and returns the remaining components back to your body. During this procedure, a sterile, single-use kit is used and your blood never leaves the system.
STEP 4 – Thank you!
Thank you for taking about an hour to donate plasma. You have just given a valuable gift to those who are in need of plasma-derived therapies and we thank you on behalf of these patients. We will offer you a sandwich and something to drink as you relax after your donation. What’s more, we will reimburse you for taking your time to donate.
