Apheresis

Platelets

What are platelets?
Platelets are one of the components that help the blood clot to prevent bleeding.

What is Platelet Apheresis?
The removal of platelets by continuous centrifugation using a cell separator. Red cells and plasmas are returned to the donor.

What conditions affect platelet function
Many clinical conditions affect platelet function, such as drugs (particularly chemotherapy), liver or kidney disease, sepsis, cardio-pulmonary bypass and primary bone marrow disorders.

What is meant by single donor platelets?
A unit of platelets obtained from one person using the blood cell separator.

Are single donor platelets (SDP) and pheresis platelets the same?
Yes

How do I become a platelet donor?
Donate a unit of medically acceptable whole blood, then discuss your interest with a donor room employee. To donate platelets, appointments have to be made first.

What do I need to know about being a platelet donor?

• Donations are scheduled, call 254-724-2933
• Do not take aspirin containing drugs 36 hours prior to donation
• Do not take any anti-inflammatory (such as Advil, Motrin or Naprosyn) 24 hours prior to donation
• Eat a good meal
• Have good accessible veins in both arms
• Allow two hours to donate

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Therapeutic Procedures

The Donor Center performs therapeutic procedures with the cell separator for certain disease conditions.4 Procedures require a physicians order and coordination with the Blood Center nursing staff. Out-patient procedures are available in certain situations, contact the Blood Center for further information 254-724-2933.

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