Platelet Donors Are "Real Life" Heroes!
Why are platelets so important?
Platelets are tiny cells that help blood to clot. The growing success of chemotherapy as a weapon against cancer means more and more patients require platelets as part of their medical treatment. Diseases such as leukemia that were once 100% fatal are now being treated and often cured by a combination of modern medicine and repeated transfusions of platelets.
Platelet Pheresis (fuh-REE-sis) Facts:
| One platelet donation provides as many platelets as six to eight whole blood donations. |
| Platelet donors must meet the same medical criteria as whole blood donors and must have a suitable venous access. |
| Platelet donors can donate more often because the body replaces platelets within 24 hours. |
How is platelet pheresis done?
During a platelet donation, blood is drawn from one arm and passed through a cell separator carefully removing the platelets and returning the red cells and plasma to the donor through the other arm. Less than one unit of blood is out of the donor at any one time.
Each donation is collected in a prepackaged, sterile and disposable kit. This is considered a closed system which means no blood comes in contact with the actual machine.
How long does it take?
The actual platelet procedure takes approximately 1 hour, but you should plan on being at the Blood Center for 2 hours. This includes registration, medical history interview, mini physical and refreshments afterwards. Many donors choose to enjoy a movie from the Blood Center's extensive video library or enjoy the Internet!
Who is eligible?
Platelet donors must meet the same medical criteria as whole blood donors and must have a suitable vein in each arm. It is very important not to take aspirin or products containing aspirin for two days prior to being a platelet pheresis donor.
How often can I donate?
Platelet donations may be made every 15 days, up to 24 times a year. A platelet donor can give more often than a whole blood donor because the body replaces platelets within 24 hours.
Are appointments necessary?
Platelet procedures are scheduled by appointment to help specific patients who need specific components. It is very important to notify the Blood Center as soon as possible if you are unable to keep your appointment. That way, another donor may be scheduled to fill your appointment time. (While appointments are preferred, we may be able to accommodate donors on short notice.) Please call 732-842-5750 ext. 263 to schedule an appointment or send your appointment request to appt@cjbcblood.org.
