Plasma Donation

Plasma Donation FAQs

• Does it hurt?

  Minimally, if at all. Plasma donation feels similar to a regular blood donation.

• Does Versiti pay donors for plasma donations?

  No. FDA regulations prohibit paying blood donors since the blood collected directly benefits patients in hospitals through transfusions. Plasma centers that compensate their contributors can do so because every contributor’s plasma is pooled and manufactured into medications and distributed globally. In contrast, blood donations at Versiti impact your local community.

• How do I prep for my donation?
  • Get rest
  • Drink fluids
  • Eat a healthy meal
  • Download the app to speed up your questionnaire and to easily schedule your next appointment
  • Download a podcast, audio book or movie to enjoy during your donation
• How long does the donation process take?

  The actual process only takes about 20-25 minutes, but you can expect to spend about an hour and a half with us. That means you can…

  • Catch up on your TV shows
  • Read a book
  • Sit back and relax
• How often can I donate plasma?

  You can donate plasma every 4 weeks. All blood types can donate plasma, but AB types are the universal plasma donors. Only 3% of the U.S. population have it.

• What is plasma?

  Plasma is a liquid part of blood that carries proteins, hormones and other nutrients throughout the body. It is the biggest blood component, making up 55% of your total blood volume. A healthy supply of plasma in the body:

  • Protects from infection
  • Helps maintain a healthy blood pressure
  • Promotes clotting when you get a cut
• What to do after your donation?
  • Feel good about giving back? Tell the world and encourage others on social. Spread the word on social with #SaveLivesDonatePlasma and tag @versiti
  • Relax and enjoy a yummy snack
  • Schedule your next donation
  • Drink lots of fluids and avoid alcohol
  • You’ve earned a break - avoid vigorous exercise for the rest of the day
• What’s the process for donating plasma?
  • Check-in: Bring verification of your identity — a driver’s license, donor ID card or government-issued ID card
  • Health questionnaire and initial screening
  • Get settled in your comfy donation chair
  • The phlebotomist will give you a quick stick
  • A process called apheresis (ay-fur-ee-sis) uses a slow, steady and sophisticated machine to take the plasma out of your blood and give you back the other components through the same arm
  • Before you know it, your donation is over
  • You will get snacks and a drink for post-donation pick-me-up
• Who does my plasma donation help?

  Nearly 10,000 units of plasma are needed daily in the U.S. – and nearly 4 million a year. Your plasma donations go to:

  • Transplant recipients
  • Burn and Trauma patients
  • Cancer warriors
  • Patients with hemophilia and other bleeding disorders