How to Donate Platelets in Utah
- 1). Find your local blood bank by using the Blood Banker site (see Resources). Decide when you want to donate platelets, since you must abstain from certain foods and other chemicals beforehand. You cannot donate platelets if you are unwell, or if you weigh under 110 pounds. Abstain from alcohol and other drugs for 72 hours before donating platelets.
- 2). Go to the blood bank, and tell them you wish to donate platelets. You must wait seven days between platelet donations, and you cannot donate more than 24 times in a 12-month period. You must complete a series of forms the first time you donate platelets.
- 3). Give your information to the health practitioners, who will conduct a brief medical exam. They may test your iron and other blood levels, depending on your medical history.
- 4). Donate the platelets. This procedure takes around half an hour and is relatively painless. When you have finished, you are free to leave, although you are advised to drink fluid and eat a snack to replenish your energy.