With the numbers of new SARS-CoV-2 infections continuing to rise, there is an urgent need for plasma donations from previous COVID-19 patients. Plasma from donors contains antibodies, which may help hospitalized patients fight the disease (COVID-19) caused by the virus (SARS-CoV-2).
While recommendations for receiving plasma can change due to the learning processes that are involved during a pandemic, the recommendations for the act of giving plasma generally do not change. Here's what you need to know:
Meet the Eligibility Requirements
Of course, you will need to have had COVID-19, and a positive test result, in order to be able to donate plasma for COVID-19. Note: "have had" not "currently have." According to the FDA, COVID-19 plasma donors need to be fully recovered from the disease for a minimum of 14 days before they can donate their plasma.
There are other eligibility requirements that need to be met beyond a positive test result. Your candidacy for plasma donation will be determined during an eligibility screening over the phone. You will be asked various questions, such as age, weight, and health, as well as where you've recently traveled, what medications you are taking, and if you've recently gotten a tattoo. These screening questions are typical for plasma and blood donations and need to be answered thoroughly.
Understand the Plasma Donation Process
It's a good idea to understand the process of donating plasma before you go to the clinic or donation center. You will be asked to wear a mask and to sit in a recliner. You will be given a blanket to keep warm with as you may get chilly during the procedure.
Sometimes, both arms are used during the procedure for plasma donation. Your blood will be taken from one arm and put through a sterile machine that separates the plasma part of the blood. The blood gets returned back to you via your other arm while the plasma gets collected in a bag or container. Therefore, keep in mind that you may not be able to bend your arm to do any social media browsing or book reading. Perhaps use the time to listen to a podcast or your favorite music.
Know What to Expect Afterwards
Plasma is liquid and since it will be taken out of your blood, you will need to hydrate. Many plasma donation centers mix saline into the blood before the blood is returned to donors. Be sure to find out if your donation center will add saline so you know how much you need to rehydrate yourself if they do not.
Helpful note: A good rule of thumb to go by to know whether or not you are dehydrated is to check the color of your urine.
You will be given snacks to eat before you leave. Even if you aren't hungry, it's important to eat the snacks because they will help your body replenish the plasma while at the same time give you a bit of sustenance to keep you from getting lightheaded or dizzy. If you have any food allergies, be sure to inform the clinic of your allergies prior to arriving at the clinic. That way, they can be sure to have appropriate snacks for you as well as keep you safe from the offending allergen.
Generally, donation centers provide an education sheet on what to do and what to expect after the donation procedure. Be sure you thoroughly understand the instructions before leaving the clinic or donation center.
In conclusion, donating COVID-19 plasma is safest when you answer the eligibility questions thoroughly as well as when you know what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
For more information, reach out to a local COVID-19 plasma donation center.
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