While donating with apheresis technology takes a little longer than a whole blood donation, it is just as safe and comfortable. Each donation is supervised by trained personnel, and is performed using sterile, disposable equipment. Blood is drawn from the donor into a centrifuge located in the cell separator machine, which separates the blood into different components. Only the component needed is collected, and the remainder of components are returned to the donor. Platelets and can only be stored for up to five days, and are needed by transplant patients and those receiving treatment for Leukemia and or cancer.
Healthy donors can give platelets every three days.
About 55 percent of blood is composed of plasma, which acts as a carrier for blood cells and nutrients. Plasma donors can donate every 28 days. After the red cells and plasma are removed, the remaining fluids are returned to the donor. Donors lose a smaller amount of fluids through the RBCP process than through a regular whole blood donation. Red cells are used to help patients undergoing surgery or trauma, and patients with chronic blood disorders like anemia or sickle cell.