It takes a special person to donate platelets.

Thank you for being a blood donor. 
We're hoping you are willing to find out if you would be a good candidate for platelet donation. Platelets have an incredibly short “shelf life” – usually around five days – so we are constantly in need of platelet donors.
 

Why platelet donations make a huge difference.
We can collect more platelet product in one draw from one donor than we can from several whole blood donors. For example, one donor could give us three units of platelets at one time, while it could take up to 18 whole blood donors to give us the same amount!
 

What are platelets, and why are they so important?
Platelets are cells in your blood that help control bleeding and they’re critically important in treating trauma patients, chemotherapy and burn patients, open heart surgery patients, along with many other types of patients.

How do I donate platelets?
When you donate platelets, your blood passes through a special machine using a single-use disposable kit. It separates out the platelets; the machine then returns your red blood cells and plasma back to you through a single needle in one arm. It takes longer to do this, so most donors who donate platelets bring along a book or watch a video to pass the time. We appreciate your patience in helping us out!
 

When can I donate platelets?
That’s the amazing thing - our bodies are able to replace platelets very quickly, so platelet donors can come back and donate as often as every two weeks, versus waiting two months to donate whole blood.
 

We really need your help!
The hospitals served by the San Diego Blood Bank are especially in need of platelets now, so please talk to any staff member about making an appointment to donate platelets. Or call us at 1-800-469-7322 and we’ll answer all your questions.
 

Donating platelets is a special gift…from special donors like you.