First Plasma Donation: What to Expect Step by Step

Before You Go: Preparation

What to Bring

Day-Before Preparation

• Hydrate well: 8-10 glasses of water throughout the day
• Eat protein: Include protein at every meal
• Avoid alcohol: No drinking for 24 hours before
• Get sleep: 7-8 hours the night before

Day-Of Preparation

• Eat a good meal: Protein-rich, low-fat, 2-3 hours before
• Drink water: 16-24 oz before your appointment
• Wear comfortable clothes: Short sleeves or sleeves that roll up
• Bring entertainment: Phone, book, or tablet for during donation

Arrival & Registration

Check-In Process

1. Sign in at the front desk
2. Present your ID and documents
3. Complete new donor paperwork (usually on tablet/computer)
4. Get your donor card/account set up

Registration Takes About

• Paperwork: 15-30 minutes
• Account setup: 10-15 minutes
• First-visit photo: 5 minutes

Questions You'll Answer

• Medical history (conditions, medications, surgeries)
• Travel history (certain countries affect eligibility)
• Lifestyle questions (FDA-required screening)
• Contact information

The Screening Process

Health Questionnaire

You'll answer questions about:

• Current health status
• Recent illnesses or symptoms
• Medications taken
• Risk factor assessment

Vital Signs Check

Finger Prick Test

A small blood sample tests:

• Protein levels: Must meet minimum threshold
• Hematocrit: Red blood cell percentage (typically 38%+ for women, 39%+ for men)

First-Visit Physical Exam

Your first visit includes a brief physical:

• Heart and lung check
• Arm vein assessment
• General health evaluation
• Takes 10-15 minutes

The Donation Process

Getting Set Up

1. Escorted to donation area
2. Seated in reclining chair
3. Arm cleaned and prepped
4. Needle inserted (brief pinch)
5. Connected to plasmapheresis machine

How Plasmapheresis Works

The machine cycles your blood:

• Draw cycle: Blood drawn from your arm
• Separation: Machine separates plasma from blood cells
• Return cycle: Red cells returned to your body with saline
• Repeat: Several cycles over 45-90 minutes

What You'll Feel

• Initial stick: Brief pinch like blood draw
• During cycles: Pressure sensation during draw and return
• Coolness: Returned saline may feel slightly cool
• Tingling: Occasional tingling from citrate (anticoagulant)

Duration

After Your Donation

Immediately After

• Needle removed, bandage applied
• Apply pressure for 5+ minutes
• Remain seated for observation period
• Enjoy provided snacks and drinks

Getting Paid

• Payment loaded to prepaid card (usually same day)
• First-visit bonus may be immediate or after 2nd donation
• Check your center's payment policy

Recovery Tips

• Drink plenty of fluids (16+ oz right away)
• Eat a full meal within 2 hours
• Avoid heavy lifting for several hours
• No intense exercise same day
• Keep bandage on for several hours

First-Timer Tips

To Have the Best Experience

Common First-Timer Concerns

Next Steps Based on Your Plasma Donation Estimate

• Track visits: Log donation dates, bonuses, and pay to avoid missed incentives.
• Prepare properly: Hydration and protein intake can reduce deferrals.
• Plan payouts: Understand prepaid cards, transfer delays, and fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the first plasma donation take?

First visits typically take 2-4 hours total due to registration, medical screening, and physical exam. The actual donation takes 45-90 minutes. Subsequent visits are much faster (1-2 hours total).

What do I need to bring to my first plasma donation?

Bring valid photo ID (driver's license or state ID), proof of address (utility bill, bank statement), and your Social Security card or proof of SSN. Some centers accept passports.

Does donating plasma hurt?

You'll feel a brief pinch during needle insertion, similar to a blood draw. Most donors experience only mild discomfort. The donation itself is not painful once the needle is placed.

How much do you get paid for first plasma donation?

First-time donors typically earn $50-100+ per visit during the new donor promotion period (usually first 30-90 days). This is significantly higher than regular donor rates.

What happens during the plasma donation screening?

Screening includes health history questionnaire, vital signs check (pulse, blood pressure, temperature), finger prick test for protein and hematocrit levels, and a brief physical exam on your first visit.

Can I eat before donating plasma?

Yes, you should eat a protein-rich meal 2-3 hours before donation. Avoid fatty foods. Stay well-hydrated. Never donate on an empty stomach.