Quick Answer
Plasma centers defer donors for safety reasons including low iron (hematocrit below 38%), abnormal vital signs, recent tattoos, certain medications, travel history, or medical conditions. Most deferrals are temporary and can be resolved within days to months.
Most Common Deferral Reasons
Understanding why you were deferred helps you prepare for your next visit. Here are the reasons plasma centers most frequently cite:
Vital Sign Deferrals
| Vital Sign | Acceptable Range | Common Cause of Failure |
|---|---|---|
| Hematocrit | 38-54% | Low iron, dehydration |
| Protein | 6.0-9.0 g/dL | Poor nutrition, not eating before visit |
| Blood Pressure | 90/50 to 180/100 | Stress, caffeine, underlying condition |
| Pulse | 50-100 bpm | Anxiety, caffeine, exercise before visit |
| Temperature | Below 99.5°F | Illness, just came from hot environment |
Blood Test Deferrals
- Low hematocrit/hemoglobin: Indicates possible anemia or iron deficiency
- Low protein: Your body needs adequate protein to safely donate plasma
- Positive disease markers: Testing positive for HIV, Hepatitis B/C, or other transmissible diseases
- Abnormal liver enzymes: May indicate liver problems
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Medical Condition Deferrals
Temporary Medical Deferrals
- Active infections: Cold, flu, COVID-19 (wait until symptom-free)
- Recent surgery: Typically 6-12 months depending on procedure
- Pregnancy: Deferred during pregnancy plus 6 weeks postpartum
- Recent vaccinations: Some vaccines require waiting periods
- Antibiotics: Wait until course is complete plus symptoms resolved
Longer-Term Medical Deferrals
- Cancer history: Requirements vary by type and treatment status
- Blood transfusion: 12-month deferral in most cases
- Organ transplant: Permanent deferral
- Certain autoimmune conditions: Case-by-case evaluation
Lifestyle and Behavior Deferrals
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Getting a tattoo or piercing triggers a deferral period due to infection risk:
- Regulated states: 3-4 months if done at licensed facility
- Unregulated states: 12 months
- Unlicensed facilities: 12 months regardless of state
Travel Deferrals
- Malaria-risk countries: 3-12 months after return
- UK/Europe (1980-1996): Potential permanent deferral for mad cow disease risk
- Areas with disease outbreaks: Varies based on current conditions
High-Risk Activities
- IV drug use: Permanent deferral
- Recent incarceration: 12-month deferral after release
- Sexual risk factors: Deferral periods vary by specific situation
Common Mistakes That Cause Deferrals
Before Your Appointment
- Not eating enough: Skipping meals leads to low protein levels
- Poor hydration: Dehydration concentrates blood, affecting readings
- Too much caffeine: Elevates pulse and blood pressure
- Intense exercise: Can raise pulse above acceptable range
- Not sleeping well: Fatigue affects vital signs
At the Center
- Rushing in: Not allowing time to calm down before screening
- Incomplete health history: Forgetting to mention medications or conditions
- Wrong arm preparation: Not staying warm enough for good blood flow
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
What are the most common plasma deferral reasons?
The most common deferral reasons are low hematocrit/hemoglobin, low protein levels, high or low blood pressure, elevated pulse, recent tattoos or piercings, travel to certain countries, and certain medications.
How long does a plasma deferral last?
Deferral length varies by reason. Low iron may only require waiting a few days. Tattoos require 3-12 months depending on the state. Some medical conditions cause permanent deferrals.
Can I donate plasma if I was deferred yesterday?
It depends on the reason. For temporary issues like low iron or high pulse, you may be able to return the same week after addressing the issue. Ask the center about your specific deferral.
Why was I deferred for low protein?
Plasma centers require adequate protein levels because plasma is rich in proteins. Low protein can indicate inadequate nutrition. Eating protein-rich meals before your appointment can help.
Will a deferral at one center affect other centers?
Centers share some information through databases. A deferral for a serious reason (like certain diseases) will likely appear at other centers. Minor deferrals like low iron typically stay at that center.
Can I appeal a plasma deferral?
You can ask staff to explain the deferral and discuss options. For medical deferrals, providing documentation from your doctor may help. However, centers have final say on eligibility decisions.