Donating Plasma FAQs (2024)

FAQs

What questions do you have to answer to donate plasma? ›

Those diagnosed with a serious or chronic illness–like high blood pressure, epilepsy, HIV/AIDS, or a primary immunodeficiency (PI)–are not eligible to donate plasma. Those who have high blood pressure would need to be tested to see what their current blood pressure is at the time of donating.

For most people, donating plasma does not cause any side effects, but some donors can experience fatigue, bruising, bleeding, or dehydration. Additionally, you may feel dizzy or lightheaded. While not typical, fainting can also occur. It's rare, but more serious infections or reactions can occur, which can be treated.

Arm Inspection

Next, the screening staff member inspects your arm. They are checking for rashes, plaques, and vein issues that may make it difficult to donate.

You'll answer a few questions about your health history and places you've traveled, during a private and confidential interview. You'll tell us about any prescription and/or over the counter medications that may be in your system. We'll check your temperature, pulse, blood pressure and hemoglobin level.

Plasma is rich in nutrients and salts. These are important in keeping the body alert and functioning properly. Losing some of these substances through plasma donation can lead to an electrolyte imbalance. This can result in dizziness, fainting, and lightheadedness.

Donating plasma doesn't carry any calories. However, your body is estimated to lose between 450-650 calories per plasma donation, depending on how much you can donate.

How long does it take for your body to recover from donating plasma? ›

Plasma regenerates quickly. With proper hydration, your blood volume returns to normal within 48 hours. Because of this, you can give plasma twice in any 7-day period, but no more than once in a 48-hour period. You can typically schedule a return visit while you are at the plasma center.

The body can detoxify itself naturally with help from your liver. Giving blood may help the body's detoxing potential. Blood donations have been shown to affect the levels of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs).

Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. It is tested by measuring the amount of hemoglobin in a single drop of blood obtained from a finger prick. If your hemoglobin is too low, we will ask that you wait to donate until your levels have returned to normal.

Pumping your hand makes the blood in your arm veins flow faster. Squeeze your fist or an object and watch your plasma donation times speed up!

All donors must be screened for HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C at each donation using nucleic amplified testing (NAT), a state-of-the-art method that tests for the DNA particles of the virus. In addition, each plasma donation is tested for antibodies that the body produces in response to a virus.

Ever had any major problems with heart, lungs, liver, or kidneys. Ever been exposed during a medical procedure to a live organ, cells, or tissues from an animal (xenotransplant). In past 12 months, had sexual contact with a person who has hepatitis OR lived with a person that has hepatitis.

Limiting alcohol and caffeine intake and eating a protein- and iron-rich diet in the days before your appointment can help your body prepare for donation. Eating a healthy snack or meal a few hours before your appointment and staying hydrated is also helpful. Do not use nicotine within an hour of your appointment.

Paid plasma collection in the U.S. can bring $30 to $70 per donation. With incentives, some people can make $400 or more per month. Committed repeat donors who give at the maximum, twice-a-week frequency can sometimes earn up to $1,000 a month, depending on the plasma center.