How long does a platelet donation take? Platelet donation usually lasts up to three hours. But before we dig deeper, let us provide you with a quick overview of collecting blood elements, including plasma or platelet.
There are three types of blood components covered by Apheresis: platelet, red blood cell, and plasma.
The process of Apheresis involves a machine that medical personnel will hook to you to gather and sort out the mentioned blood component and then returns those that aren’t needed to you. In addition, a single-use sterile tubing kit contains your blood, so you won’t get sick after donating. Regardless, most people would only need one blood component, which they have their use for, but this article will focus on platelet donation and how long the process takes. We hope that after this article, we can encourage you to donate and save a life!
Learning What Plasmapheresis Is
Before we discuss how long a platelet donation is, you must know first what Plasmapheresis is. Plasmapheresis is a process that only takes out all of the blood’s plasma (the liquid portion.) During an emergency or traumatic circumstance, plasma is often given to patients to help with bleeding control.
For you to be able to provide plasma to another person, you must be eligible to donate whole blood. A, B, AB, and O are the four most common blood types. But the unique plasma donors, those with the blood type AB, are compatible with different blood types while others are only compatible with the same blood type. As a result, AB plasma is widely sought after. Regardless, every 28 days, you have the option of making another plasma donation.
How Many Hours A Platelet Donation Take Up
So, how long does a platelet donation take? Donating platelets takes around three hours from start to end. Completing the health history questionnaire and having your machine prepared for you will take about 30 minutes total. For the next two hours, you’ll donate and then have a bite in the refreshment area.
Platelets must be separated and collected from other blood components, which takes time. Your blood is drained of platelets and other fluids in the process and then given back to you. While the personnel collects your plasma, you can spend your time relaxing, taking a movie break, or listening to music. And once you have donated enough platelets to help up to three people in just a few hours. You might think that it consumes lots of time, but it’s more than that.
Many people who give blood claim platelet donation helps them relax and unwind while also saving lives. On the other hand, the platelets in whole blood or Apheresis can only be used for five days before they expire. Whole blood red cells can be stored in the refrigerator for 42 days before expiration. Regardless, learn more about the blood donor program here. Now, let’s proceed to the “frequently asked questions” portion of the article.
Frequently Asked Questions About Platelet Donation
Now that you know what Plasmapheresis is and how long it takes, at this point, let us learn more about platelet donation by finding out the answers to the most frequently asked questions related to the topic. Read on!
#1. What is the role of platelets?
Platelets are blood cells that help form clots and halt bleeding when present in the body. They are vital to the survival and treatment of millions of people with cancer, chronic diseases, and catastrophic injuries. Approximately one platelet transfusion is required every fifteen seconds. Unfortunately, you have only five days to use the platelets you’ve received before they expire, and you’ll need new donors every day after that.
That is why platelet donation is encouraged. Learn more about why donating is important, specifically, “Why is blood donation important” to understand why you should consider and try to volunteer.
#2. How can we benefit from donating our platelet?
It’s a great feeling to know you’re making a difference in the lives of cancer patients. A platelet donation can give three patients a total platelet dose. When it comes to patients who need a platelet transfusion, many doctors and hospitals prefer this method. In addition, some donors prefer platelet donation because it involves using a smaller needle than donating whole blood, which makes the procedure more comfortable for them.
Some donors report feeling less lethargic afterward because you’ll receive fluids and red blood cells in exchange for your platelets. Many people who give blood claim platelet donation made them feel good and fulfilled because they knew they saved a life.
#3. Is there any discomfort?
For the time being, at least. Next, pinch the soft underside of your arm to reveal the fleshy inner workings of your arm. You’ll feel a pinch like that when the needle is placed into each of your arms. Some donors prefer platelet donation because it involves using a smaller needle than donating whole blood, making the procedure more comfortable.
Fluids returned to donors can cause chills in some donors. Keep warm with the offered blankets. Specific donors may also experience a tingling feeling. Calcium can quickly reduce this minor reaction to the anticoagulant employed when the blood is returned to your body.
You will be given a calcium supplement if you have this discomfort. But don’t worry because medical personnel will help you out! Now that we are near the end let us suggest this article, “What is apheresis donation,” that might interest you.
Conclusion
And that is it for “How long does a platelet donation take?” Once again, the maximum hours a platelet donation could take is three hours. It might be time-consuming, but it will be all worth it because someone will have a second chance at life, thanks to you! We hope that we have helped you out.