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mai 20, 2021

As a plasma donor at DB Plasma, there are several ways you can go about earning extra money while simultaneously helping to create important life-saving therapies. With our new and improved referral rewards program, in particular, you get the opportunity to earn up to $50 per referral! 

Want to learn more about what this new program entails and how you can participate? Keep reading to find out!

How to Participate in DB Plasma’s New Referral Rewards Program

Referring friends or family members to donate plasma is a simple three-step process that involves the following:

  1. Send a text message, WhatsApp message, Facebook message, Instagram DM, or Twitter DM to the person you’re referring.
  2. Include your full name in the message.
  3. Have the referee show the message to our reception staff after they donate.

We recommend that you review the eligibility requirements for plasma donation to better your chances of successfully referring a donor and receiving your compensation!

How Compensation Works for DB Plasma’s Referral Rewards Program

DB Plasma’ new donor referral program is a tiered system that gives donors the opportunity to up to $50 per referral. Here’s how it works:

For example, if you refer two donors in a month, you will receive $25 for each referral and earn a total of $50 that month. If you refer six donors in a month, you will receive $35 for each referral and earn a total of $210. If you refer seven donors in a month, you will receive $45 for each referral and earn a total of $315. If you refer 10+ donors in a month, you will receive $50 per referral! Please note that referees must complete their plasma donation at some point during the month that they were referred to be counted as a referred donor. 

Reasons to Refer a Friend or Family Member to Donate Plasma

Not only is our referral program a great way to boost your compensation, but it’s also an excellent way to further contribute to the creation of life-saving therapies. Hundreds of donations are needed to create the plasma-derived products that immunocompromised patients rely on. Every year, it takes 130 plasma donations to treat one person with primary immunodeficiency disease and 900 donations to treat one person with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. 

The more plasma donations that are made, the more likely it is that someone living with a rare and chronic condition will receive the treatments they rely on. By referring a friend or family member to donate plasma, you can make a big difference in someone else’s life and get compensated in the process! Every donation helps. 

Blog

avril 29, 2021

From autoimmune disorders to immunodeficiencies to rare blood disorders, plasma, a protein-rich component of blood, is capable of treating a wide range of medical conditions. Von Willebrand disease is one such condition. If you’d like to learn more about what exactly von Willebrand disease is and how human plasma can be used to manage it, we’ll be unpacking all of that in this blog. 

What is Von Willebrand Disease?

Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is a lifelong bleeding disorder that causes blood to not clot properly. The majority of people with this disorder are born with it and inherit it from either one or both of their parents. VWD affects men and women equally, though women are more likely to notice the symptoms of the condition. 

What are the Symptoms of Von Willebrand Disease?

Symptoms of von Willebrand disease oftentimes do not show up for many years. They can also be mild or completely absent, leaving many not knowing that they have the condition. 

The most common symptom of VWD is abnormal bleeding. Symptoms of bleeding may include:

  • Recurring or prolonged nosebleeds
  • Bleeding from the gums
  • Heavy or long menstrual bleeding
  • Excessive bleeding after an injury, surgery, or dental work
  • Blood in stool or urine

Individuals with VWD may also bruise easily and/or get bruises with a lump in them. 

What Causes Von Willebrand Disease?

Our blood contains many proteins that are needed for it to properly clot. One of those proteins is called von Willebrand factor (VFW). Von Willebrand disease occurs when someone has either a low level of VWF or the VWF protein doesn’t function like it is supposed to. 

There are three major types of VWD: Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3. 

  • Type 1: People who have VWD Type 1 have lower-than-normal levels of VWF. This is the most common and mildest form of the condition. 
  • Type 2: With Type 2 VWD, the body makes normal amounts of VWF, but it does not function the way it should. 
  • Type 3: This form of VWD is the most severe. Individuals with Type 3 VWD have very little or no VWF and low levels of factor VIII, which is another essential blood-clotting protein. 

How is Von Willebrand Disease Treated?

Although von Willebrand disease cannot be cured, there are a number of treatments that can be used to manage the condition. The treatments a patient with VWD receives depend on the type and severity of their condition. 

Desmopressin (DDAVP) is a synthetic hormone that makes the body release more VWF into the blood. It can be administered via an injection or through a nasal spray and is used to treat those with milder forms of VWD. 

Plasma-derived VWF-containing concentrates, like Alphanate and Vovendi, can be used to treat individuals with more severe forms of VWD. They can also be used to treat patients who don’t respond well to DDAVP. These medications are intravenously administered to replace the missing factor in the blood. 

By donating plasma, you can help patients with rare conditions like von Willebrand disease receive the treatments they need to lead a healthier life. Visit the eligibility page of our website to find out if you can donate plasma at DB Plasma. We’re always happy to welcome new donors to our centres! 

Blog

avril 24, 2021

Plasma donation is an incredible act that can change the lives of others for the better. It can also be a great way to make some extra money if you live in a province where paid plasma donations are permitted. 

If you’re thinking about becoming a plasma donor and are wondering what the process will entail, you’re in luck! Here’s the ultimate guide to plasma donation for first-time donors.

What is plasma?

Plasma is a yellowish liquid component of blood that contains vital proteins. It helps to maintain blood pressure and volume, carries electrolytes to our muscles, supports cell function, and supplies critical proteins for blood clotting and immunity. When healthy plasma is donated, it can be used to treat a wide range of autoimmune diseases, immune deficiencies, and blood disorders.

Am I eligible to donate plasma?

In order to donate plasma, you must be in good health and meet certain eligibility requirements. At DB Plasma, donors must meet the following requirements:

  • Be between 17 and 68 years of age.
  • Weigh between 50 kg to 180 kg.
  • Have not had a tattoo or piercing done in the past six months.
  • Have not donated blood in the past 56 days.
  • Have a permanent address within 100 kilometres of a DB Plasma facility.

At your first appointment, you will be asked to present valid photo identification, proof of address, and a social insurance card. You will also undergo a screening process that involves answering a questionnaire, being interviewed, and having a medical examination and testing performed on two separate occasions within a 26-week period.

What is the process to donate plasma?

If you meet all the eligibility requirements to become a plasma donor, you can then proceed to the donation portion of the plasma donation process. Plasma is collected through a specialized donation procedure known as plasmapheresis. During the plasmapheresis procedure, you will be intravenously connected to a medical device known as an apheresis machine that will separate plasma from whole blood and return the rest of your blood to your body. This portion of the plasma donation process takes approximately 50 minutes to complete.

After you’ve completed your plasma donation, you will be encouraged to rest, relax, and enjoy refreshments in our centre’s waiting room for 10 minutes. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re currently keeping snacks and drinks behind our reception desk, but our reception staff are always more than willing to hand them out when donors ask! During this time, you can also schedule your next appointment.

How long does it take to donate blood plasma?

From start to finish, you can expect the entire plasma donation process, including the registering and screening portions, to take approximately two hours and 30 minutes as a first-time donor. Subsequent donation appointments will be easier and faster. Appointments for repeat donors typically take around one hour and 30 minutes.

Are plasma donations paid or unpaid?

Both paid and unpaid plasma donations exist in Canada. Whether or not you’ll be compensated for your plasma donation depends on where you live and what company you’re making the donation with. 

At DB Plasma, we compensate our donors for the time and effort they put into giving plasma. Donors at our centres in Saskatoon and Moncton have the opportunity to earn up to $400/month for their contributions. We also have monthly prize draws where donors are automatically entered to win $100 gift cards if they give plasma during that month!

Plasma donation is a great way to give back and get some much-needed me-time. As a donor at DB Plasma, you can also supplement your income with the compensation you receive for your donations. If you’d like to become a plasma donor, book an appointment at a centre near you today!

Blog

avril 21, 2021

29.04.2021

As of Saturday, May 1st, our Saskatoon plasma collection centre will be reopening. Two inspections were performed at our centre on April 22nd and April 29th, and the Saskatoon Health Authority’s Medical Officer of Health has deemed our facility to be safe. 

Precautionary Actions and Safety Measures

On top of our regular cleaning process, additional cleaning of our entire facility was performed on April 23rd. All DB Plasma staff were tested for COVID-19 at least once (some were tested twice) and no new cases have been identified. As an added precaution, we decided to wait a few additional days to reopen our centre so that by the time our centre reopens there will be over 14 days since the last positive case at our centre was identified. The last positive case at our Saskatoon centre occurred on April 16th.

To ensure donor and staff safety while continuing to help create important life-saving therapies for patients who require them, we’ve also decided to introduce new measures. Donors will undergo additional screenings at the entrance of our Saskatoon centre, we’ve switched over to an electronic sign-in process for donors, and we’ve invested in upgraded PPE for our staff. 

How Donor Compensation and Status Will Be Impacted

Since our Saskatoon centre has been closed for seven days, many donors will lose their status and fall back to the Orange level. This is something that will automatically be done by our computerized system. We don’t want our donors to miss out on well-deserved compensation, so from Saturday, May 1st to Saturday, June 5th, all donors will receive $60 for their second donation of the week. This is the same amount of compensation you’d receive as a Gold level donor ($90 for the week for five weeks). During this time, donors will have to build back their status. Our regular compensation scheme will resume during the week of June 6th. 

We appreciate your patience and understanding during this time and hope to see you at our Saskatoon centre soon. 

23.04.2021

Temporary Closure of Saskatoon Center

During the week of April 12, COVID-19 was detected in individuals who were present in our Saskatoon facility on Quebec Avenue. We have been in contact with the Saskatchewan Health Authorities (SHA) and out of an abundance of caution the plasma collection centre will be closed for the rest of this week or until the Medical Officer of Health ensures the health and safety of our staff and donors. During this period all our staff members will be tested for COVID-19. Since the pandemic began, this is the first occurrence of this nature in any of our facilities. We will reopen when we are satisfied that it is safe to do so. In the meantime, we would like to reassure all of our donors who had appointments scheduled during this shut-down, that their status and bonuses will not be impacted by these cancelled appointments. We will also ensure that our staff do not suffer financially during this period. Plasma saves lives. The patients who need our products to survive are some of the most vulnerable in the world. We will work as hard as we can to reopen so that we can continue this important work together. Additional updates will be provided via email and on our website as more information becomes available. Thank you.

21.04.2021

On April 21 the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) notified DB Plasma that they have identified three (3) cases of positive COVID-19 among our employees in the past week. The individuals last worked at DB Plasma’s Saskatoon location on April 10, 13 and 16 respectively. By definition when two or more individuals with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 (for whom the Medical Health Officer has determined that transmission likely occurred within a common non-household setting) an outbreak exists.
Our staff follow DB Plasma’s Coronavirus COVID-19 Pandemic Response Plan which utilizes risk assessment published by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) for the management of close contacts of confirmed and probable cases of COVID-19 occurring in DB Plasma facilities. Following COVID-19 Infection Prevention Guidelines in our plan ensures that risk of contacts at DB Plasma level will be assessed at either “Medium” or “low” levels which is essential for continuity of our operation and minimizing risks to staff and donors.  

13.01.2021

Over the past months, DB Plasma has been continually reviewing Public Health guidelines in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. We have been making appropriate changes to our Centres as needed, and the safety of our staff and Donors remains our top priority.

In both our Saskatoon and Moncton Centres, approved face coverings or masks are mandatory. We ask that Donors wear their masks properly and keep them on the entire time they are in the Centres for the safety of our staff and other Donors.

Our Centre in Moncton operates with a New Brunswick COVID-19 Operational Plan for Workplaces in effect. This written plan includes relevant safety and hygiene procedures, physical distancing requirements, and daily active screening for staff among other precautionary protocols.

DB Plasma continues to monitor Public Health for the most up-to-date recommendations in order to provide the safest environment possible for everyone who visits our Centres.

01.09.2020

Over the course of the pandemic, we’ve continually revised our policies to reflect the current status of the virus in Saskatchewan and New Brunswick. As of Tuesday, September 1st, the following policies went into effect:

  1. It is no longer necessary for donors to wear gloves when they visit our centres. We request that donors still use hand sanitizer when they enter our plasma donation centres. 
  2. Saskatoon donors are STRONGLY recommended to use a face covering when they are in our centre. Wearing masks is still mandatory for plasma donors at our Moncton location. 
  3. We ask that donors refrain from walking around, speaking with other donors, and talking on their phones when they are in our centres as an added safety measure.
07.06.2020

Dear Plasma Donors in Moncton,
As per government order, New Brunswickers must wear a face covering to enter buildings open to the general public, starting Tuesday June 9th.
Please note as result it will be mandatory for all donors to wear a face covering in the DB Plasma facilities.

19.04.2020

Dear Valued Donors,

Effective today, DB Plasma updated the eligibility criteria for plasma donors as follows: 

  • If you have been diagnosed with or suspected of having COVID-19, you will not able to donate for 28 days after complete resolution of symptoms
  • If you have been in close contact with someone who has been ill with this virus, you will not be able to donate for 28 days after your last contact.
  • If you have travelled internationally or inter-provincially within Canada, you will not be able to donate for 28 days after your return.
  • If you have participated in a social or recreational gathering of more than 50 people or more, you will not be able to donate for 28 days after the gathering date.
05.04.2020

Dear Valued Plasma Donors,

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises the use of simple cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others.  Cloth face coverings fashioned from household items or made at home from common materials at low cost can be used as an additional, voluntary public health measure.

Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.

The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators.  Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders, as recommended by current CDC guidance.

Watch this video to learn how to make a homemade mask: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPx1yqvJgf4&feature=youtu.be

29.03.2020
  • We are asking donors & staff who have travelled internationally to any country, or inter-provincially within Canada to avoid the plasma donation centres for 14 days after their return. This restriction applies only to those who travelled, not to other household members.
  • ONLY prospective donors will be allowed in the center. No Children, family members or friends.
  • Unfortunately, we will not be able to offer lockers to donors at this time. We kindly ask donors to keep this in mind. 
  • Remove all communal objects such as magazines, snacks and energy bars throughout the center. Snacks and Bars will be with the reception staff (like juice boxes) and can be handed to donors upon request 
23.03.2020
  • Asking staff to stay home if they do not feel well.
  • Asking staff who have travelled internationally to any country, to avoid plasma donation for 14 days after their return. This restriction applies only to those who travelled, not to other household members.
  • NEW: Asking staff not to participate in any social or recreational gathering of more than 10 people or more.
  • Asking staff to wash their hands for a minimum of 20 seconds and use approved hand sanitizer.
  • Asking staff to follow proper cough and sneeze etiquette (cough or sneeze into upper sleeve or tissue, not the hands).
  • Asking staff to avoid close contact with people who are sick outside of the centre.
  • NEW: Asking staff to wear protective gloves in all areas and all times at work.
  • NEW: Asking staff in the donation room and screening area to wear masks and/or protective face shields while interacting with donors.  
  • Asking staff to refrain from touching their eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed/unsanitized hands.
  • Asking staff not to be shaking hands or hugging/kissing when meeting someone.
  • Asking staff to strengthen cleaning and sanitizing practices. In addition to our already stringent daily cleaning and sanitizing procedures, staff have increased the frequency of cleaning in the waiting area, screening rooms and donation rooms. Staff have always disinfected equipment with antimicrobial solutions that match or exceed industry requirements. Staff are regularly sanitizing the chairs between donations to ensure the health and safety of all donors.
  • Asking staff to implement additional cleaning protocols for the reception and waiting areas as well as other frequently touched areas such as doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, faucets, sinks, and tabletops.
  • Asking staff to follow more restricted interactions with donors going forward. For example, our staff will try to avoid touching donor ID cards. If they have to touch donor ID cards, they will disinfect them.
  • NEW: Asking staff to practice social distancing at work and avoid all non-essential interactions with other staff.

For Donors

  • Asking donors who have traveled internationally to any country, to avoid plasma donation for 14 days after their return. This restriction applies only to those who traveled, not to other household members.
  • NEW: Asking donors who have been in close contact (example: living with) with someone who has been ill with the COVID-19 to avoid plasma donation for 14 days after their contact.
  • NEW: Asking donors who have participated in any social or recreational gathering of more than 50 people or more to avoid plasma donation for 14 days after their participation.
  • Asking donors who have flu symptoms such as cough and fever, to book their appointment 7 days after cessation of symptoms.
  • Asking donors to make an appointment online or by phone before arriving at our centre.
  • If wait times do happen to arise, donors might be asked to wait in their vehicles and will be called in for their appointment as an extra safety precaution.
  • Asking all donors to use our hand sanitizer stations conveniently placed at the entrance. We urge all visitors to wash their hands for at least 20 seconds regularly, as the CDC recommends.
  • NEW: Asking donors to wear protective gloves provided to them at reception while they are in the centre.
  • Restriction on the total number of people who can be in each enclosed area at the plasma centre (Moncton= No more than 10 people, Saskatoon= No more than 25 people)
  • Asking donors to practice social distancing during their visit and Rearranging the operating donation beds that allows donors to be more than 2 meters away from each other in the donation room.      
  • NEW: Asking donors to keep their face away (look the opposite side) when our phlebotomists are doing venipuncture.
  • Reducing ratio of donors to staff so the plasma donation procedure will be smoother and the wait time in the centre will be reduced.
  • Measure the temperature of every donor as part of the routine donor screening process.
  • Assessing every donor for any changes in their health since their last donation.
  • NEW: Asking donors to report a subsequent diagnosis of COVID-19 as soon as possible to the DB Plasma.

For Staff

  • Asking staff to stay home if they do not feel well.
  • Asking staff who have travelled internationally to any country, to avoid plasma donation for 14 days after their return. This restriction applies only to those who travelled, not to other household members.
  • NEW: Asking staff not to participate in any social or recreational gathering of more than 10 people or more.
  • Asking staff to wash their hands for a minimum of 20 seconds and use approved hand sanitizer.
  • Asking staff to follow proper cough and sneeze etiquette (cough or sneeze into upper sleeve or tissue, not the hands).
  • Asking staff to avoid close contact with people who are sick outside of the centre.
  • NEW: Asking staff to wear protective gloves in all areas and all times at work.
  • NEW: Asking staff in the donation room and screening area to wear masks and/or protective face shields while interacting with donors.  
  • Asking staff to refrain from touching their eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed/unsanitized hands.
  • Asking staff not to be shaking hands or hugging/kissing when meeting someone.
  • Asking staff to strengthen cleaning and sanitizing practices. In addition to our already stringent daily cleaning and sanitizing procedures, staff have increased the frequency of cleaning in the waiting area, screening rooms and donation rooms. Staff have always disinfected equipment with antimicrobial solutions that match or exceed industry requirements. Staff are regularly sanitizing the chairs between donations to ensure the health and safety of all donors.
  • Asking staff to implement additional cleaning protocols for the reception and waiting areas as well as other frequently touched areas such as doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, faucets, sinks, and tabletops.
  • Asking staff to follow more restricted interactions with donors going forward. For example, our staff will try to avoid touching donor ID cards. If they have to touch donor ID cards, they will disinfect them.
  • NEW: Asking staff to practice social distancing at work and avoid all non-essential interactions with other staff.
21.03.2020

Dear Valued Blood Plasma Donors; 

The Saskatchewan government added new measures to the state of emergency and as a result we’ve decided to introduce a new rule at our Saskatoon centre. Effective immediately, a maximum of 25 people will be permitted in each enclosed area of our blood establishment in Saskatoon.

To make this change as smooth as possible and eliminate wait times, we ask that donors make an appointment online or by phone before arriving at our centre. If wait times do happen to arise while this rule is in place, donors will be asked to wait in their vehicles and will be called in for their appointment as an extra safety precaution.

We are continually looking at ways to support our donors, staff, the community as well as those who are in need of plasma-derived products and will keep you updated as things evolve.

20.03.2020

Dear Valued Donors,

As a result of the state of emergency that was announced by the Government of New Brunswick, we’ve decided to introduce a new rule at our Moncton centre. Going forward, a maximum of 10 people will be permitted in each enclosed area of our blood establishment in Moncton.

We’d like to thank all our donors for their patience and cooperation during this difficult time. The need for plasma never goes away for patients with rare and chronic conditions, and we are determined to continue to provide lifesaving therapies to them while also keeping our donors safe. 

To make this change as smooth as possible and eliminate wait times, we ask that donors make an appointment online or by phone before arriving at our centre. If wait times do happen to arise while this rule is in place, donors will be asked to wait in their vehicles and will be called in for their appointment as an extra safety precaution.

DB Plasma is remaining open during the response to COVID-19 as we fall under the category of functioning critical infrastructure. Blood and plasma donation centres have a special responsibility to continue operations since people rely on these services to maintain their health. PM Trudeau outlined the importance of continuing to donate during the COVID-19 pandemic yesterday. As the only Health Canada Licensed Blood Establishment in the provinces of New Brunswick and Saskatchewan that remunerates donors for their time, we will be continuing to provide compensation during this time period. 

17.03.2020

Dear Valued Plasma Donor,

We know you may have questions and concerns regarding the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).  As part of our commitment to the health and well-being of our staff, donors, and community, DB Plasma (DB Plasma) will continue to monitor the situation closely through information shared by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other government and health agencies around the world in order to keep everyone safe and well informed. Should the agency’s recommendations change we will act immediately to keep donors safe.

Health care and pharmaceutical manufacturing sectors are considered part of a nation’s critical infrastructure. Your plasma donation is essential to patients that rely on plasma-derived therapies. As such, we have decided to keep our DB Plasma centres open for continued donations so we can continue to help deliver these life-saving therapies. We urge all healthy eligible donors to book and keep appointments. The need for plasma is constant. 

We have put measures in place to help ensure our donation centres remain islands of wellness within Canada’s health system. They are NOT places where sick people gather.

To give you peace of mind, we want to remind you that DB Plasma has set the highest standard for cleanliness in the industry. Our staff is trained on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), proper lab hygiene, and Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG). We have also implemented some other precautionary measurements in an effort to follow the necessary social distancing guidelines at our plasma centres:

  • We’ve rearranged the operating donation beds to have one non-operating bed in between. Now donors will be more than 6 feet away as per recommendations.
  • We’ve limited the number of individuals in the donor-specific areas of the building to below 50 persons throughout the day.
  • We will have more restricted interactions with donors going forward. For example, our staff will try to avoid touching donor ID cards. If they have to touch donor ID cards, they will disinfect them. Additional cleaning protocols have also been implemented for the reception and waiting areas as well as other high-touch areas such as doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, faucets, sinks, and tabletops.
  • We’ve reduced the ratio of donors to staff so the plasma donation procedure will be smoother and the wait time in the centre will be reduced.

Additionally, the DB Plasma staff will be following the procedures noted below:

  • They will measure the temperature of every donor as part of the routine donor screening process.
  • They will assess every donor for any changes in their health since their last donation.
  • Our team members will stay home if they do not feel well or if they travelled internationally.
  • Staff will wash their hands for a minimum of 20 seconds & use approved hand sanitizer.
  • Proper cough and sneeze etiquette (cough or sneeze into upper sleeve or tissue, not the hands) will be followed.
  • They will avoid close contact with people who are sick outside of the centre.
  • They will refrain from touching their eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed/unsanitized hands.
  • Staff members will not be shaking hands or hugging/kissing when meeting someone.

If you have any questions about donating, please contact centre management. 

Every day, thousands of people with rare and chronic diseases rely on the therapies produced from the plasma we collect. Thank you in advance for your continued support and ongoing donations. Now more than ever, we need your donations!

13.03.2020

Dear Valued Plasma Donors,

We are writing to share our commitment to fighting COVID-19 and to assure all our stakeholders that we are following recommended safety protocols that have been provided by competent authorities including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to ensure health and safety of our donors and employees.

Given the strict screening procedures in place for plasma donors and the established processes of virus inactivation and removal during the manufacturing of plasma-derived products, COVID-19 is not a concern for the safety of plasma protein therapies manufactured from source plasma.

We are confident that COVID-19 will not significantly impact operations at DB Plasma and our generous donors. However, as a measure of abundant caution, we have set a detailed business continuity plan to mitigate any risks:

1.       As of Mar 14th DB Plasma (DB Plasma) is asking anyone who has travelled internationally to any country, to avoid plasma donation for 14 days after their return. This restriction applies only to those who travelled, not to other household members.

2.     DB Plasma is requesting donors with flu symptoms such as cough and fever to stay at home for 7 days after cessation of symptoms.

3.       We have strengthened our cleaning and sanitizing practices and are strictly implementing the CDC’s guidelines. In addition to our already stringent daily cleaning and sanitizing procedures, we have increased the frequency of cleaning in our waiting area, screening rooms and donation rooms. We are and have always disinfected our equipment with antimicrobial solutions that match or exceed industry requirements. We are regularly sanitizing the chairs between donations to ensure health and safety of all donors.

4.       As an additional precaution, we encourage all donors to use our hand sanitizer stations conveniently placed throughout the centre. We urge all visitors to wash their hands for at least 20 seconds regularly, as the CDC recommends.

We are continuously monitoring this situation and if there are any changes requiring further communication, we will be sure to inform you. Thank you for being part of the DB Plasma donor family. Wishing you all good health.

If you have any questions or concerns please reach us at info@dbplasma.com

Resources

To receive the most recent information regarding COVID-19, check the following websites:

Centers for Disease Control Prevention:  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html

Health Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/health-professionals.html

World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019

Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA):

https://www.pptaglobal.org/23-advocacy/access-to-care/1057-covid-19

https://www.pptaglobal.org/media-and-information/ppta-statements/1055-2019-novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-and-plasma-protein-therapies

https://www.pptaglobal.org/media-and-information/ppta-statements/1059-a-note-to-plasma-donors-on-the-coronavirus

Blog

mars 30, 2021

Plasma is a protein-rich component of blood that can be used to treat a wide range of medical conditions. In order for donated plasma to actually be manufactured into life-saving therapies, however, it must first meet certain quality standards. Thankfully, as a plasma donor, there are things you can do to give your plasma the best chance of being put to good use. Keep reading to find out what they are!

What Is Considered Healthy Plasma?

There are rigorous screening processes that have been put in place to ensure that only healthy pools of plasma are used for therapeutic purposes. At plasma collection centres, donors must meet certain eligibility requirements and undergo medical examinations before giving plasma. Once their plasma is collected, centre staff check to see whether it’s discoloured or cloudy. Healthy plasma is pale-yellow and clear.

It can take anywhere from seven to twelve months for plasma protein therapies to be manufactured from the time a donation is made to the time it is ready to be given to a patient. After blood plasma leaves the collection centre, samples are tested for indicators of viral infections. Plasma products are then further safeguarded by advanced pathogen reduction processes. Only after this extensive manufacturing process is plasma considered safe to use.

The Dos and Don’ts of Plasma Donation

There are plenty of things you can do to improve the quality of your plasma as a donor. Here’s a list of dos and don’ts you should consider.

Do:

  • Drinking lots of water the day before and the day of your plasma donation appointment, ideally six to eight cups. The amount of water you drink directly affects how full your vein will be and how your plasma is separated.
  • Eat a healthy meal that’s iron and protein-rich within two hours of donating. Iron-rich foods include broccoli, beans, leafy greens, chicken, and turkey. Foods high in protein include nuts, eggs, cheese, and yogurt.
  • Get a good night’s rest prior to donating. The more rested you are, the smoother and quicker your recovery will be. Your donation will also be more plentiful.

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to donating. Alcohol is a diuretic that can cause dehydration and make plasma donation more difficult.
  • Drink caffeine, in any form, on the day of your plasma donation appointment. Caffeine can cause blood vessels to constrict, making finding a vein and returning the non-plasma portions of blood back to the donor more challenging. 
  • Eat fatty foods like potato chips, pizza, and fries the day of your plasma donation appointment. These foods can negatively impact your blood tests and contribute to cloudy plasma.
  • Use tobacco or cannabis for at least eight hours prior to donating. Smoking tobacco before giving plasma can lead to an increase in blood pressure. Smoking cannabis in this time period will lead to at least a one-day deferral. 

By following these tips and tricks, you can rest easy knowing you’ve done everything on your part to ensure your plasma can be used for the greater good. Book your next plasma donation appointment today to put them into practice!  

Blog

mars 24, 2021

Blood donation and plasma donation are both incredible acts that can help save lives. Given the fact that plasma is the main component of blood, these two processes are often confused with one another. While they do share some similarities, in actuality, they are quite different. Read on to learn more about the difference between blood donation and plasma donation!

What Is Blood Donation?

Whole blood donations are considered to be the most flexible type of donation. Since whole blood contains red cells, white cells, platelets, and plasma, it can either be separated into its specific components post-donation or transfused in its original form. Donation times for whole blood donations average around eight to 10 minutes.

What Is Plasma Donation?

During a plasma-only donation, plasma, the yellowish liquid component of blood, is separated from blood cells and blood cells are returned to the bloodstream. This is done through a process known as plasmapheresis, which involves donors being intravenously connected to a medical device known as an apheresis machine. The plasmapheresis portion of the plasma donation process takes approximately 50 minutes to complete.

The Main Differences Between Donating Blood and Donating Plasma

Besides the differences in the blood donation and plasma donation processes, there are also major differences between the two when it comes to their end uses and donor compensation.

When whole blood is separated into its individual components, it can be used to treat cancer patients and patients with rare diseases, depending on the blood component that is being used. Plasma donations, on the other hand, are used to manufacture life-saving treatments for patients with autoimmune disorders, immunodeficiencies, and blood disorders. People who receive plasma-derived treatments, including intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapies, must do so on a regular basis and they rely on these treatments to manage their conditions.

In terms of compensation, blood donors are not compensated for their contributions in Canada. Some provinces in Canada, however, do permit paid plasma donations.

Since plasma donation is a more time-consuming process than blood donation, it makes sense that plasma donors would be compensated for their time and effort. Plasma donors are also able to donate much more frequently than blood donors are due to the fact that blood cells are returned to the donor during the plasma donation process, which is yet another reason why they should be compensated. Plasma donors can safely donate twice a week whereas male blood donors can only donate once every eight weeks and female blood donors can only donate once every twelve weeks.  

In addition, compensating plasma donors has been proven to be the only way to make sure there’s a secure supply of plasma for patients who need it. At DB Plasma, we’re proud to offer paid plasma donations at our centres in Saskatoon and Moncton, and we plan to continue this practice as we expand our business.

Now that you’re well aware of the differences between donating blood and donating plasma, we hope you can go into your donation appointment feeling more prepared. We’re always happy to accept new donors at DB Plasma, so feel free to book an appointment at a centre near you!

Blog

février 25, 2021

Plasma donation is a great way to give back to patients in need while also supplementing your income. It is a fulfilling experience from start to finish, and there are many benefits to becoming a plasma donor. With that said, if you’re not too familiar with plasma donation, you may have some questions that need to be answered before you decide to become a donor. Lucky for you, we’re going to be answering commonly asked questions about plasma donation that’ll help clear things up!

How does blood plasma donation work?

Plasma is a protein-rich liquid portion of blood. Roughly 55% of our blood is made up of plasma. In order to collect plasma and separate it out from our blood, plasma donors undergo a process known as plasmapheresis.

During plasmapheresis, donors are intravenously connected to an apheresis machine that separates the plasma portion of blood from blood cells then returns blood cells to the donor. This process takes approximately 50 minutes from start to finish.

For first-time donors, the donation process, which consists of registering, screening, donating, and relaxing, can take up to two and a half hours. Repeat donors are typically at our centres for about one hour and 30 minutes.

Who can donate plasma?

Certain eligibility requirements have been put in place to ensure only viable plasma is used to manufacture life-saving treatments. At DB Plasma, we accept donors who:

  • Are between 17 and 68 years of age.
  • Weigh between 50 kg to 180 kg.
  • Have not had a tattoo or piercing done in the past 12 months.
  • Have not donated blood in the past 56 days.
  • Have a permanent address within 100 kilometres of a DB Plasma facility.
  • Present valid photo identification, proof of address, social insurance card.
  • Qualify to donate. This involves a process that includes a questionnaire, an interview, a medical examination and testing on two separate occasions within a 26-week period.

How much will I get paid to donate plasma?

Not all provinces allow for paid plasma donations and DB Plasma is one of the very few companies that compensate donors. Paying plasma donors has been proven to be the only way to ensure a secure supply of plasma, which is one of the reasons why we’ve been long-time proponents of this practice.

DB Plasma donors have the opportunity to earn up to $400/month for their contributions. We also have a referral program that gives donors the opportunity to earn an additional $25 per referral and we regularly hold giveaway events.

What is plasma used for?

You may be curious about what happens to plasma post-donation. This yellowish component of blood has many uses thanks to its incredible healing properties.

Donated source plasma is typically used to treat patients with rare diseases and bleeding disorders. The patients who rely on these therapies receive regular infusions or injections of plasma-derived products that allow them to lead healthy and more productive lives.

There you have it – all the things you may want to consider when deciding whether to become a plasma donor! We hope this will make your decision much easier. If you’ve come to the conclusion that you’d like to become a donor, we’d be happy to have you! Book an appointment at a DB Plasma centre near you to get started on your journey to becoming a plasma donor.

Blog

février 19, 2021

December 9th, 2020 was a day we’d all been waiting for since the COVID-19 pandemic took hold of our lives. It was the day that Health Canada finally approved the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. Since then, Health Canada has also approved the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine and the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.

While the approval of these vaccines is very exciting, a lot of misconceptions have come about with this news. This includes rumours surrounding donor eligibility after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.

Here’s a look at how the coronavirus vaccine will actually affect plasma donation.

Misconceptions About the COVID-19 Vaccine and Plasma Donation

The COVID-19 pandemic has already had a negative impact on plasma donations, with some plasma collectors reporting significant declines in collections due to social distancing requirements and other restrictions. Given the fact that the manufacturing process for plasma-derived medicines is so complex and can take anywhere from 7-12 months, this decline is very concerning. Any decrease in plasma collections ultimately impacts patients’ ability to receive the therapies they rely on.

On top of the decline in donations, there have also been rumours circulating that claim that people who have received either the Pfizer, Moderna, or AstraZeneca vaccine will no longer be eligible to donate source plasma. This rumour is not true. It does, however, have the potential to further impact the production of life-saving plasma treatments.

How the COVID-19 Vaccine Will Affect Source Plasma Donations

Receiving the Pfizer, Moderna, or AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine will have no bearing on your eligibility status as a plasma donor. You will still be able to donate regular source plasma just as you usually would. Your donations will also still be used to create therapies for patients with rare and chronic conditions.

All in all, receiving the COVID-19 vaccine will, in fact, not have any impact on regular source plasma donations. With the reported declines in plasma collection, every person’s donations, whether they are vaccinated or not, matter more than ever before. Book your next plasma donation appointment today to help ensure a secure supply of source plasma for patients who need it.

Blog

janvier 26, 2021

Plasma is a clear, straw-coloured liquid component of blood that contains important proteins. The proteins found in plasma, including albumin and globulin, play an essential role in blood clotting and defending the body against infections. Donated plasma is often used to create life-saving therapies for patients with rare diseases whose bodies aren’t able to perform these vital functions on their own. As such, keeping your protein levels up as a plasma donor is very important.

If you’d like to learn more about the ways you can get your protein levels up for plasma donation, keep reading to find out!

Protein Levels and the Plasma Donation Process

Plasma donors must meet certain eligibility requirements and undergo screenings to ensure their plasma is safe and viable. Part of the screening process involves total protein (TP) measurements being taken.

The total protein measurement process is relatively simple. It involves a finger stick test that is used to collect a blood sample. A capillary tube containing the blood sample is then spun and TP is measured. The minimum acceptable TP level for plasma donation is 6.0 g/dl.

If your TP levels don’t reach that level, you won’t be eligible to donate plasma on the day of the test. However, there are things you can do to bring your protein levels up and resume your plasma donation sessions if you find yourself in this scenario.

3 Ways to Increase Your Protein Levels for Plasma Donation

1. Consume Animal Proteins

Eating animal proteins is a great way to boost the protein level in your blood. Red meat is one of the best sources of animal protein, but it is also high in saturated fat, which can ultimately affect your cardiovascular health. To get optimal protein levels in your diet while also keeping your health in check, opt for leaner cuts of red meat like sirloin steak and filet mignon. These red meats contain 23 grams and 22 grams of protein per 3 oz serving respectively.

Other meats that are high in protein include pork, poultry, and fish. Pork contains 23 grams of protein per 3 oz serving, chicken contains roughly 24 grams of protein per 3 oz serving, and salmon contains 17 grams of protein per 3 oz serving.

2. Consume Dairy and Eggs

Dairy and eggs are another excellent source of protein. There are 6 grams of protein in one large egg and, compared to other cheeses, low-fat ricotta and cottage cheese contain a substantial amount of protein without a high percentage of fat. One cup of low-fat ricotta has 20 grams of protein and one cup of large curd cottage cheese has 23 grams of protein.

3. Consume Plant-Based Protein

If you don’t eat animal products, there are still ways to increase your protein intake with just plant-based foods! Tofu, lentils, beans, nuts, seeds, and dark leafy greens like spinach and kale are all great sources of protein.

No matter what your dietary preferences are, there are plenty of ways to boost your protein levels so that they are adequate for plasma donation! Book your next appointment at a DB Plasma centre near you to help patients that rely on plasma-derived therapies and earn up to $4,680/year. 

Blog

janvier 21, 2021

There are a range of rare and chronic conditions that plasma, the largest component of human blood, is capable of treating. Guillain-Barre syndrome is one such condition. In this blog, we’ll be unpacking everything you need to know about Guillain-Barre syndrome and how blood plasma is used to manage this condition.

What is Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

Guillain-Barre syndrome is a rare disorder that causes your body’s immune system to attack healthy nerve cells. This leads to muscle weakness, loss of reflexes, and tingling or numbness in parts of your body. In severe cases of Guillain-Barre syndrome, these sensations can spread and eventually paralyze your whole body.

What are the Symptoms of Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

Guillain-Barre syndrome causes your immune system to attack your peripheral nervous system. Since the nerves in your peripheral nervous system transmit signals between your brain and your body, when these nerves become damaged your muscles are no longer able to respond to signals from your brain.

Early symptoms of Guillain-Barre Syndrome include tingling and muscle weakness starting in your toes, feet, and legs that spread upward to your arms. Other symptoms of this autoimmune disorder may include:

·  Difficulty walking

·  Difficulty with facial movements, including talking, chewing, or swallowing

·  Difficulty with bladder control

·  Difficulty breathing

·  Severe aches and pains

·  Rapid heart rate

·  Paralysis

What Causes Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

The exact cause of Guillain-Barre syndrome is unknown. Roughly two-thirds of people with the condition report developing it shortly after they’ve had a respiratory or digestive tract infection. Cases have also been reported following a Zika virus or COVID-19 infection.

An improper immune response to the prior illness is thought to lead to Guillain-Barre syndrome. Anyone can get this disorder, but it’s more common in older adults. A Guillain-Barre syndrome diagnosis is typically confirmed using spinal tap, electromyography, and/or nerve conduction tests.

How is Guillain-Barre Syndrome Treated?

If left untreated, the symptoms of Guillain-Barre syndrome can be fatal. Thankfully, plasmapheresis and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatments can both be used to manage immune attacks and support bodily functions.

During the plasmapheresis procedure, antibodies that are attacking your nerves are removed from your blood via an apheresis machine. The apheresis machine then separates these antibodies out and returns your blood to your body.

IVIG treatments are plasma-derived products that are manufactured from the blood plasma of healthy donors. This treatment can help block the antibodies that cause Guillain-Barre syndrome when administered in high doses.

The inflammatory issues caused by Guillain-Barre syndrome will usually resolve on their own, but with these innovative treatments, the symptoms and duration of this illness can be eased and reduced. If you’d like to help patients afflicted with Guillain-Barre syndrome, book your next plasma donation appointment today.