Donating plasma is in many ways similar to donating blood. Unlike blood donors, however, most people giving plasma get paid for it.
What is Plasma?
In case you’re wondering, plasma is the liquid component of blood, in which the blood cells are suspended, and is composed primarily of water and proteins. Plasma has a variety of uses. It’s commonly used to help hemophiliacs and burn victims. In addition, it is used extensively in medical research.
Requirements for Donating Plasma
In general, the requirements for donating plasma are similar to those for donating blood. You must:
- be at least 18 years old
- weigh over 110 pounds
- be in general good health
The amount of compensation varies but it is usually around $50 for each donation. Most places allow you to donate your plasma a maximum of two times per week.
Where to Donate Plasma
Finding a plasma donation center is easy. Plasma centers are usually for profit businesses. So you can check your local Yellow Pages, either the book or the online version. However, I would strongly recommend that you only visit a certified plasma center. Click here to go the home page of the Plasma Protein Therapeutic Association (PPTA) to search for plasma centers that are certified by the International Quality Plasma Program (IQPP).
What Happens at the Plasma Center?
The first time you give plasma you’ll undergo a thorough screening process. You can’t just walk in, give your plasma, get paid and leave. Be prepared to spend a couple of hours during your first time at the donation center. (Subsequent visits may only take about half an hour.) They will ask you about your medical history to make sure you’re not part of certain risk groups. Venereal diseases, drugs, or piercings and tattoos over the last year are usually immediate disqualifiers.
Once you have passed this initial screening test, you’ll move on to a basic physical exam. They’ll measure your weight, blood pressure, pulse, and temperature. If everything checks out fine, you’ll be allowed to give your plasma.
The actual process of giving plasma takes just a couple of minutes. They’ll take about a pint, the same amount you give when you donate blood. On the other hand, it should be less exhausting because they will return the blood cells back to you. They will only keep the plasma. That’s part of the reason why you’re allowed to donate plasma more often than blood.
Once you’re done giving your plasma, you can pick up your money and leave.
Photo Credit: vbl
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