Click the Donation Process step below for more information.
1. Reception – Once you sign in, the receptionist will call your name and request required information to prepare your file.
2. Screening – In a private atmosphere, a technician will prick your finger for a small blood sample to check your red blood cell volume and protein levels. Your blood pressure, pulse and temperature will be checked, and you will complete a pre-screening questionnaire to make sure it’s safe for you to donate. If you are a first-time donor, you will also receive a confidential physical examination.
3. Donation – Automated plasmapheresis machines are used to remove whole blood and separate plasma into a container. Prepackaged sterile, disposable supplies are used to ensure the safety of the donors. During this process many donors relax, read or watch TV.
4. Reward – You have given a valuable gift and we reimburse you for taking the time to donate. The plasma you have donated is processed and frozen for testing to screen for diseases as needed.
5. Manufacturing for Medicines – Once the plasma is tested, the approved product is sent to fractionators where it is purified and broken down into various proteins. These proteins are combined with other chemicals to make life-saving medicines for patients with hemophilia, immune deficiencies, emphysema and other illnesses.
The donation process takes approximately two hours for first-time visitors and 60 to 90 minutes for subsequent visits. Donating plasma is a very charitable act, in which you should take pride. If you have any reservations or fears about the process, read further to understand the process and set your mind at ease.
We are happy to answer any questions you may have about the plasma donation process.
