If you can handle needles, meet the
recommended weight requirement (110 pounds or more), and have time to
spare, you could earn $ 50 to $ 65 per week, depending on your location
and how often you donate.
When you arrive at the blood center, you will receive a short basic
medical exam. A technician will ask you questions about your physical
history, and then check your weight, blood pressure, pulse, and
temperature. They will then give you a few drops of blood from your
fingertips for the test. If you meet all of the requirements, you will
prepare for needle insertion and blood draw. The whole experience
usually takes an hour and a half or two hours, but sometimes it can take
a little longer.
I gave plasma several times while I
was in graduate school, and it was generally a painless process. A
machine removes plasma from your blood and then reinserts the blood
(minus the plasma) back into your body. That part always seemed a little
strange to me, but it wasn't painful.
Be sure to drink water, get enough rest, don't take aspirin, and have a
satisfying meal about two hours before donating. I had an empty stomach
once and almost passed out when I got up after donating.
Hospitals and clinics use plasma to treat hemophiliacs, some pregnant
women, babies, and burn victims, so in addition to earning money, they
will help others. Visit DonatingPlasma.org to find a donation center
near you.