How do I know if I’m eligible to donate?
Your safety and the safety of your donation are of utmost importance to us. To be eligible to donate, you must be at least 18 to 69 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds, pass a medical examination, complete a medical history screening, and test non-reactive for transmissible viruses including hepatitis and HIV.
You also must provide a photo ID, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of address. Proof of address can include the information printed on your photo ID, W-2 form, or paycheck stub if your current address is listed. You can also use a utility bill from the previous 30 days that lists your name and address, or bring a copy of your current lease.
How does Grifols compensate donors? Could I donate my compensation to a charity?
Your time and effort are worth a lot to us, and even more to the patients you help. Donors typically receive $50 to $90 per donation, and that money is put on a debit card that you can use for yourself, your family, or to donate to a charity of your choice. You can also use it to draw cash from an ATM.
The FDA allows donors to donate up to two times in seven days (that’s eight or nine times a month). Some centers offer bonuses or higher compensation rates for the fifth or sixth donation in a given month. Compensation rates can vary from center to center so visit your local center’s website for more information.
What should I do to prepare myself for a plasma donation?
Staying hydrated and eating properly beforehand are important parts of a healthy plasma donation. Make sure your diet is high in protein, and avoid foods high in fat. Drink plenty of water or juice, and avoid alcohol and caffeine on the day before and the day of your donation. Getting a good night’s sleep before your donation and not smoking (for at least 30 minutes) before a donation are also important.
What are the potential adverse effects during or after plasma donation?
Donating plasma is a low-risk procedure with minimal or no adverse effects. Before donating, you’ll receive information and instruction on the plasmapheresis process from Grifols plasma donation center team members. They will discuss the risks of adverse reactions, injuries, and events that may occur during or after plasma donation, and they will give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have. Contact your nearest Grifols plasma donation center for more information.
What are plasma centers doing to help employees and donors stay safe?
The health and safety of all Grifols center donors and employees is our top priority. We follow all COVID-19 protocols recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As the CDC changes its recommendations, our centers quickly update our policies and procedures to maintain health and safety.
How often can I donate?
Because your body can regenerate plasma in a day and the red blood cells are returned to your body, the FDA has determined that it’s safe to donate plasma twice in a seven-day period. That means you can donate eight to nine times a month.
Are Grifols plasma centers FDA-approved?
Your plasma donation takes place in an FDA-approved medical facility with licensed medical professionals. All Grifols plasma centers are certified to operate by the International Quality Plasma Program, a governing body responsible for ensuring plasma donation meets the highest-quality standards. The medical staff and phlebotomist will be with you throughout the entire process.
How does donating plasma work?
Donating plasma is a lot like donating blood, with a few differences. First, blood is drawn. This can take anywhere from an hour and a half to two hours. Then the plasma is separated from the red blood cells using sterile equipment. Finally, the red blood cells are returned to your body with sterile saline solution to help your body replace the plasma removed.
