Giving Blood vs. Giving Plasma

The Difference Between Blood and Plasma

• Blood is the life-sustaining fluid that circulates throughout our bodies. It is responsible for carrying essential nutrients to our cells and transporting waste products away from our cells. Blood is comprised of water, gases, fats, chemicals and plasma. Approximately 55 percent of blood is plasma, a straw-colored clear liquid. The liquid plasma carries the solid red and white blood cells as well as the platelets.
  
  

Requirements

• Eligibility requirements are the same regardless of whether you are donating blood or plasma. You must be healthy and at least 17 years old and 110 pounds, according to American Red Cross standards.
  
  

Giving Blood

• When giving blood, the experience from start to finish typically takes about an hour. It is often referred to as giving "whole blood." The donation itself, during which a pint of blood is taken, only takes about eight to 10 minutes. Giving blood is the most common type of donation and donors are able to donate "whole blood" every 56 days, according to American Red Cross requirements. The blood that is donated is later separated into different components that are transfusable.
  
  

Giving Plasma

• Plasma donation is also called plasma apheresis. During this donation, a machine collects blood and separates out select components, either plasma or a combination of plasma and platelets, and returns the red cells and other unneeded components back to the donor. This donation procedure takes about 15 minutes longer than a typical "whole blood" donation. According to American Red Cross requirements, plasma donors are eligible to donate every 28 days, up to a maximum of 13 times annually.
  
  

The Donation Process

• The general donation process is essentially the same for both blood and plasma. In preparation of any blood or plasma donation procedure, you will need to be sure to drink plenty of water. You are also encouraged to eat iron-rich foods in the weeks prior to your donation. You'll need to bring identification as well as a list of current medications you are taking. During the donation process you will be asked a series of questions relating to your medical history as well as travel information. Your blood pressure, temperature, pulse and hemoglobin levels will also be measured. When it's time for the donation, your arm will be cleansed and a sterile needle will be inserted. After the collection is over you should have a small snack and remain in the donation center for 10 to 15 minutes before resuming normal activities.