Donating plasma is an important activity that helps save lives. Just like donated blood, your plasma is used in trauma situations in hospitals to help patients in need. For instance, plasma can be used to stop bleeding in emergency situations. If this is an activity you are thinking of engaging in, here are the requirements to donate plasma and other things you need to know.
Is Donating Plasma Safe
Donating plasma is just the same as donating blood. This means as long as you are completing the process in a certified center, you will be completely fine. Before you donate plasma, ensure that the center is certified by the IQPP (International Quality Plasma Program). This guarantees that you are making the donation in a sterile environment with highly trained personnel.
All the equipment used to donate plasma is sterilized and cleaned after use. Any equipment you get in contact with during the donation is only used once. This helps in enhancing cleanliness and preventing the chances of spreading blood-borne pathogens.
Does it Hurt to Donate Plasma
You should not get hurt when donating plasma. The process of donating plasma should feel the same as a regular blood donation. However, if you have never donated plasma before, you might feel a stinging sensation when the needle is inserted. After that, you will not feel any pain as the staff will do everything to make sure you are comfortable.
What Are the Requirements to Donate Plasma?
There are different requirements to donate plasma, and they are put in place to guarantee your safety and health. In order to donate plasma, you must be 18 years or older, and you must be in overall great health. In addition, you must weigh more than 50 kilograms. Moreover, you must pass the medical screening provided and complete a medical history screening.
Similarly, you must test negative for all the viruses that can be passed through, like HIV. There are certain states that allow people aged 16 or older to donate with the permission of their parents. The ideal blood types for donating plasma include AB positive and AB negative. You can donate plasma every 28 days, but not more than 13 times annually.
How Do I Prepare to Donate Plasma?
Before the day of your plasma donation, ensure you enjoy quality sleep and a healthy breakfast. Avoid drinking coffee, tea, or alcohol, as you can feel dehydrated. You should drink water or juice instead. You should also not eat anything oily before your donation because it can impact the quality of your plasma.
Endnote
Donating plasma can be a good feeling because you know you are saving lives. It is also a good feeling, considering you don’t get hurt and the process is completely safe. Before you go to donate plasma, you must understand the requirements to donate plasma. This ensures that you will not be turned down when you get there.
You must also prepare yourself by eating and drinking healthy before your donation.
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