Donation Experience
Are plasma donation centers safe? What you need to know about safety protocols
Donation Experience
Are plasma donation centers safe? What you need to know about safety protocols
March 7, 2025
If you would like to donate plasma and are concerned about the safety of donating, here is what to know
The safety of plasma donation is a significant concern for many potential donors. Strict safety standards at certified donation centers include health screening of donors, donated plasma, and sterile equipment. In addition, donation centers follow FDA regulations to ensure a safe process. Donating plasma is a reliable way to help people in need, and safety is a top priority. If you are ready to donate plasma, here is why you should feel safe.
1. What to expect at a plasma donation center
The donation process follows a safety protocol that begins before the plasma is collected.
Donors undergo a medical examination before every donation. Highly trained professionals will:
- check the donor’s vital signs (such as blood pressure, iron and protein levels);
- perform tests for STDs and certain viruses;
- administer a questionnaire about the donor’s habits that may cause a temporary deferral (such as a recent tattoo).
Medical staff are available throughout the plasma collection process to address donor concerns and monitor vital signs.
2. Sterile equipment and hygiene practices
Donation centers follow a strict hygiene protocol to prevent the spread of infection and ensure the safety of both donors and recipients.
All equipment is cleaned and sterilized, and all donor-contact equipment (such as needles) is single-use to prevent contamination. Sterile and disposable equipment is then safely disposed of.
In addition, the medical staff is trained to ensure donor safety and comfort.
3. How plasma centers are regulated
Qualified and certified donation centers in the U.S. are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. This agency provides guidelines for safe plasma collection and ensures donor eligibility and health.
For plasma donation, the FDA regulates issues such as frequency of donation and detailed records to track donor health.
4. Plasma donation is a well-monitored process
A common safety concern for donors is fainting or an adverse event.
Professionals will guide donors through the entire process. They check donors’ vital signs to ensure their safety and are trained to provide immediate assistance if donors feel unwell.
Even after the plasma is collected, the medical staff will ensure the donors’ well-being. Donors are invited to stay at the donation center for a while (20-30 minutes) and receive some follow-up tips to ensure a smooth recovery.
The importance of safety in plasma donation
Donation centers must ensure the safety of donors and recipients. Plasma donations are vital for people in emergency situations or with chronic, genetic, and rare diseases, and an adequate supply of this fluid must be ensured.
There is always a need for plasma, and eligible donors should consider this rewarding opportunity to help others safely and reliably.
References
Health and Human Services
Webmd
Purohit M, Berger M, Malhotra R, Simon T, “Review and assessment of donor safety among plasma donors”, Transfusion, 19 April 2023.
Schroyens N, D’aes T, De Buck E, Mikkelsen S, Tiberghien P, van den Hurk K, Erikstrup C, Compernolle V, Van Remoortel H. “Safety and protection of plasma donors: A scoping review and evidence gap map”, Vox Sang. 2024 Feb;119(2):110-120.
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