New plasma donation center opens in Mishawaka

MISHAWAKA, Ind. -- A new plasma donation center has opened in Mishawaka.

The center is called CSL Plasma and is open to those who wish to possibly donate and be compensated for their time.

Plasma is vital for therapeutic remedies and approved donors are welcome in the new center.

"So donating plasma is crucial for daily life of those sick patients so they need that to live a healthy normal life, so donating plasma is also a benefit because you are compensated for your time here," said the Center manager Olivia Arend.

Donation usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour to complete depending on the hydration of the donor.

People are welcome to donate twice during a seven day period with at least 48 hours in between donations.

"You do answer a series of health history questions to make sure that you're suitable, you have your vitals taken, so your blood pressure and pulse, we do a fingerstick test for protein levels and hematocrit to make sure that you're suitable and then you go to see the nurse for a physical, our MSA, medical staff associates, do the physicals and then as long as everything passes then you head to the donor floor for a donation," said Arend.

Those wishing to be donors can visit the center and must have a valid ID, his or her own Social Security Card, and a piece of current mail to prove his or her residence.

The plasma center is open at 4150 Grape Rd in Mishawaka.