Platelet Donation
Plateletapheresis is an automated donation process where only the platelets are drawn. Blood is drawn and is passed through a cell separator where the platelets are collected and the remainder is returned to you. Apheresis is very safe. Each donation is medically supervised and is performed using a sterile disposable processing kit which is used only once.
This procedure takes approximately 90 minutes and may be performed every 72 hours, but no more than 24 times a year. Generally, platelet donors prefer to donate every 2 weeks. While you donate, you may watch one of our movies or bring one of your favorites to watch. It is very important to schedule an appointment in advance. One platelet donation usually equals the same amount of platelets that would be drawn from five to ten whole blood donations. When a patient receives a platelet unit from a single donor, it reduces the risk of an adverse transfusion reaction..
Requirements:
The same good health requirements that govern a regular blood donation apply here. You must be 17 years of age or older, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good general health. You should not take aspirin or ibuprofen for two days before donating. Please inquire about the acceptability of other medications when scheduling your appointment. There is a deferral period of 3 days after a whole blood or plasma donation.
Donors may review a list of medications before arriving at the blood center.
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Why are platelets important?
Platelets are small blood cells that help control bleeding. They are often used for those undergoing chemotherapy, which can destroy bone marrow cells. If the bone marrow becomes unproductive, platelet transfusion may be necessary to prevent bleeding until normal marrow activity is restored. Donated platelets must be used within five days.
Very Important Platelet Hero Program
Platelet donors are special donors. Many of the patients that benefit from your donation have been stricken with cancer or leukemia. When you donate, you give another birthday, another anniversay and another holiday with loved ones. With our V.I.P. Hero program, you can give patients that chance. This program was created to recognize all of our heroes that give so much so often.
Every time you donate platelets, you will receive a stamp on your V.I.P. Hero card that you can redeem for great items like mugs or caps. You can also choose to redeem your points to sponsor a patient's family to events or outings. Because a hero's gift never stops, your donation can give a patient a fighting chance at life.
For a list of merchandise, click here.
Other Types of Apheresis Donations
For answers to specific questions about being eligible to donate send an e-mail to donornotification@bloodntissue.org.