How to Donate Plasma in Arizona

A physical exam is required before donating plasma.

To donate plasma in Arizona, you must be at least 18 years old and weigh at least 110 pounds. Your first plasma donation is only used as a test for quality and safety. After your second donation, your first donation will be used to help save lives. Plasma donations are used to treat numerous conditions and diseases. The plasma donation process will take about an hour from start to finish.

Things You'll Need

• Proof of Residency
• Identification
• Social Security Number

Instructions

1. Select a plasma donation center in your area in Arizona. Locations can be found on the CSL Plasma website.

2. Prepare for your donation the day before. Drink 4 to 6 eight-ounce glasses of fluids the day before and day of your donation. Avoid foods high in saturated fat and alcohol and caffeinated beverages 24 hours before your donation. Get at least 5 to 6 hours of sleep the night before your donation.

3. Arrive at the plasma center and provide proof of identification, your social security number, and proof of residency. A proof of residency can include an electrical bill from your Arizona residence from the past 30 days.

4. Undergo a physical exam at the plasma center to check your vital signs and test for the level of plasma proteins and red blood cells. You must pass the physical exam before becoming eligible to donate plasma. A physical exam is only preformed before your first donation and on a yearly basis after that.

5. Donate plasma by being connected to a plasmapheresis machine, which filters plasma from your blood. The plasma donation process takes about 45 minutes.

6. Recover from your donation by continuing to drink plenty of fluids. Avoid smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol. Keep the puncture site clean and dry. You can remove the bandage after a few hours.

References

• CSL Plasma: Donation Steps

Resources

• CSL: Plasma Locations - Arizona
• Arizona Blood Banks: Donation Locations