A Protein Sample Visit (sometimes referred to as a Sample Only Visit) is a short visit to a donation center where a vial of blood is drawn to test and confirm that a donor's protein levels are within the FDA's required range for Plasma donation. These visits usually take 15-20 minutes total, and you will receive a payment as a thank-you for your time.
This is sometimes confused with the fingerstick protein check that is done at the start of every donation. That quick test measures your average levels for the day while this separate test is a more comprehensive lab test that measures each protein level individually. This test is done on your first donation and every 120 days to monitor your overall protein health over time.
This means that even if you pass the fingerstick test, it doesn’t always mean you’ll pass the lab test. The lab test looks at more details, like different types of proteins in your blood, not just the total amount. We do this to make sure you stay healthy while donating!
If you are required to come in for a Protein Sample Visit, remember that your deferral cannot be lifted until you have in-range results.