What should I do before I donate plasma?
- Ensure you are well hydrated: drink 4-6 eight-ounce glasses of water, fruit juice or other caffeine-free liquid at least 2 to 3 hours before donation
- Avoid caffeinated beverages
- Avoid nicotine or alcohol before or after donating plasma
- Eat a well-balanced, non-fatty meal in the hours before you donate
- Get adequate sleep
What should I do after I donate plasma?
- Eat a light meal
- Drink more fluids than usual for the next 4 hours
- Avoid nicotine or alcohol before or after donating plasma
- Avoid lifting heavy objects with the arm used for the donation
- Keep your venipuncture site clean and dry
- The bandage may be removed after several hours
- If there is bleeding from the venipuncture site, raise arm and apply pressure
- If fainting or dizziness occurs, either lie down or sit with your head between your knees
- If symptoms or other discomfort persist, call the center or see a doctor
Can I donate plasma if I’m afraid of needles?
If you’re afraid of needles, you’re not alone. Many plasma donors felt slightly anxious before their first donation. However, if you feel anxious just know that your plasma is helping save lives.
At each CSL Plasma donation center, we strive to ensure a positive donation experience. Our friendly staff will talk you through every step. On your first visit, you receive a free health assessment from our Medical Staff Associate who can discuss any concerns you may have about donating.
During your donation, you can relax in one of our donation beds and read a book or watch a movie on your mobile device. At CSL Plasma, our donation equipment and technology is also designed to support a good donor experience. A member of the CSL Plasma team is always nearby to monitor your progress along the way.
If you still feel a bit uneasy about needles:
- Visualize having a successful plasma donation,
- Focus on the benefits of your donation
- Take slow deep breaths
- Smile! Know that donors like you are helping patients in your community.
Is plasma donation safe, and are side effects possible when donating plasma?
- At CSL Plasma, we are committed to your safety. For healthy adults who meet donation eligibility requirements, donating plasma is generally a safe procedure.
- As part of our donation process, you will receive a brief health assessment - at no cost - by one of our trained Medical Staff Associates.
- Side effects are possible with any procedure, although they are rare and usually resolve quickly. Our professional staff will carefully review potential side effects of plasma donation with you and answer any questions you have.
Any more questions? Check out our
FAQ page.