Platelet Donation at PlasmaSource
In addition to plasma, you can donate platelets at PlasmaSource.
Platelet donations, like plasma, are essential for providing life-changing platelet and platelet-rich plasma therapy to those struggling with cancer, blood disorders, traumatic injuries, and other serious conditions.
Explore the comprehensive information below on platelets, their uses, the donation process, the benefits of donating, and how you can get paid for your time and effort.
What are Platelets?
Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are tiny blood cells that play a crucial role in the blood clotting process. They are produced in the bone marrow and circulate throughout your blood.
Apart from clotting, platelets also release various substances that help repair and heal damaged blood vessels. They contain granules filled with proteins, enzymes, and other molecules that help clot formation and promote healing.
Maintaining an appropriate number of platelets is essential for healthy clotting.
Abnormal platelet levels—either too high (thrombocytosis) or too low (thrombocytopenia)—can lead to bleeding disorders or excessive clotting, which can be problematic for your overall health.
What Are Platelets used for?
Along with the essential role platelets play in blood clotting, a platelet transfusion due to low platelet count may be effective in:
- Bleeding disorders like immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), leukemia, or aplastic anemia.
- Cancer treatment such as Chemotherapy can reduce platelet counts, leading to increased bleeding risk.
- Trauma and injuries that can cause massive blood loss.
- Bone marrow disorders that affect the bone marrow’s ability to produce platelets, such as myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) or certain genetic conditions.
- Certain surgeries involve high bleeding risks or those impacting organs like the liver or spleen.
Platelet transfusions are critical to medical care, especially when the body’s natural production is insufficient or compromised.
Why Cancer Patients Need Platelet Donations?
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are known to damage the bone marrow, where platelets are produced. Cancer patients often rely on blood and platelet donations to help replenish low platelets and prevent or treat bleeding complications that may arise from surgeries, biopsies, or other procedures.
Platelet donations can help cancer patients maintain adequate platelet counts, allowing them to continue their cancer treatments without delay.
During this donation, a phlebotomist uses a special machine to separate and collect your platelets and some plasma while returning your red blood cells, white blood cells, and most of your plasma.
UNderstanding Platelet Donation
If you’re interested in platelet donation and want to learn more, explore our step-by-step guide, donor benefits, and insights to ensure a successful donation experience.
- Our Platelet Donation Process
Explore our platelet donation guide and essential tips for first-time and experienced donors so you know what to expect during your donation appointment. - The Benefits of Donating Platelets
Explore the benefits of donating platelets. Every donation is an opportunity to earn extra income and change lives. - Side Effects of Platelet Donation
Understand the potential side effects of platelet donation and how to manage them safely.
Eligibility and
Rules
To ensure a smooth and effective platelet donation experience, donors must meet specific eligibility criteria and follow guidelines related to their health, age, and recent travel history.
COMPENSATION and Payment
Feel good while doing good—and get paid for your time and effort. If you meet all eligibility requirements, you can donate platelets once every seven days, up to 24 times per year. All donation payments are processed immediately and electronically, so you can access your payment right away.
PLATELET vs. Plasma vs. Whole Blood Donations
Learn the differences between a platelet, plasma, and whole blood donation process, how each is used, how often you can donate, and why the medical community is in urgent need of each.
Considering Platelet Donation? Here’s How You Can Help
Your platelet donation can change lives. Platelet donation is a crucial and impactful way to support those in need when they need it most.
Becoming a platelet donor is straightforward. First, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. Before your initial appointment, you should stay hydrated and have a healthy meal. Avoid aspirin or aspirin-containing products before donation, as they can affect platelet function.
During donation, a machine separates platelets from your blood and returns the remaining components to your body—a procedure called apheresis. After donation, rest, hydrate, and follow any post-donation instructions.
When you commit to becoming a regular platelet donor, you help to ensure a consistent supply of this vital resource and make a profound difference in the lives of patients who rely on platelet transfusions.
Each donation can make a significant difference in someone’s life. We encourage you to contact our facility for specific details, learn how to get paid with a platelet donation and clarify any concerns about the process or eligibility criteria for becoming a donor today.
Why Choose PlasmaSource for Platelet Donation?
At PlasmaSource, your donations change lives.
We prioritize your safety, ensuring a secure environment that meets the highest quality standards. Our streamlined process makes donation easy—from eligibility confirmation to scheduling.
We value your time and dedication, compensating you for each donation—your comfort matters, with personalized experiences and amenities like free Wi-Fi and entertainment during donations.
Our commitment extends to advancing medical science and meeting the growing needs of patients worldwide.
We encourage you to join us in making a difference. Choose PlasmaSource for a safe, rewarding, and impactful donation experience that supports life-changing treatments.
Have More Questions?
Our FAQ page has answers to help you prepare for your platelet donation.
Ready to Get Started?
Are you interested in becoming a plasma and platelet donor? Contact our our plasma donation center in Aurora, IL to schedule an appointment today.
