Plasma donation general requirements
To be eligible to donate plasma, you must meet certain general requirements. These requirements are designed to ensure the safety of both donors and recipients. The general requirements for donating plasma include: Anyone in good health, between the ages of 18 to 74, who weighs at least 110 pounds, has no tattoos or piercings within the last 4 months, meets our eligibility and screening requirements, and has valid identification and a permanent address. Any questions about donation eligibility, including medications, medical conditions or medical procedures should be directed to a Medical Staff Associate. Eligibility is determined during your visit.
Health and lifestyle Factors
May prevent you from donating plasma. These restrictions protect both the donor and the recipient of the plasma. Some of the most common health and lifestyle restrictions include:
- Recent tattoos or piercings: If you have a new tattoo or piercing, you will be deferred. This is because tattoos and piercings can increase your risk of infection, which could contaminate the plasma.
- History of drug or alcohol abuse: If you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse, you may not be eligible to donate plasma.
- Certain medications or medical conditions: Some medications and medical conditions can make you ineligible to donate plasma. These include conditions that affect your immune system, such as HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, and cancer. If you are taking any medications, be sure to tell the staff at the plasma donation center so they can determine if you are eligible to donate.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you are not eligible to donate plasma. This is because pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect your blood volume and plasma composition.
- Recent travel to certain countries:
If you have any of these health or lifestyle restrictions, it is important to be honest with the staff at the plasma donation center. Your responses determine if you are eligible to safely donate plasma.
How to get started as a first-time donor
If you're interested in donating plasma for the first time, there are a few simple steps you'll need to follow to get started.
First, find your nearest plasma donation center. Once you've found a donation center, gather your paperwork, stay hydrated and get a good night’s sleep to help your appointment go smoothly. Donating plasma is a safe and rewarding experience. It's a great way to help others and make a difference in your community. If you're interested in learning more about plasma donation, please visit the website of your local plasma donation center.
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![Plasma donor filling out paperwork](/sites/default/files/2024-01/Plasma%20donor%20filling%20out%20paperwork_0.webp)