When we talk about donating blood, we are usually referring to a whole blood donation, but there are several different types of donations you can give that can be transfused to patients. And donors will have a slightly different experience during each donation.
For example, the amount of time it takes to complete different donations can vary, such as when you’re donating plasma vs blood. During a whole blood donation, we collect one pint containing all the components of your blood: red cells, plasma, platelets and white cells. This process goes pretty quickly.
Thanks to modern technology, we can collect the different parts of your blood, like plasma, individually, using what’s called apheresis machines. You may be asked to make one of these types of donations depending on your blood type. This allows us to make the best use of your precious gift to help patients.
Because a special machine is used, a plasma donation takes a bit longer than a whole blood donation. Read on for the details of plasma vs blood donation.
Plasma vs Blood collection
Whether you’re donating plasma or blood, most of the process is the same. Before the donation, you’ll be asked about your health history and given a mini-physical. After your donation, we’ll ask you to relax for about 15 minutes and nosh on free snacks and water to replenish your fluids.
The difference in giving plasma vs blood occurs during the actual donation. Whole blood takes about 10 minutes, and during that time, we collect 500 ml (about a pint) while you relax in a chair. The entire process from the time you arrive until you leave takes about an hour.
Plasma donation takes about 90 minutes to two hours for the entire process, with the actual donation time about 30-45 minutes. A smaller needle is used to connect you to the apheresis machine that separates out your plasma. As it’s separated out, the rest of your blood components are returned to you, along with a saline solution.