KEDPLASMA Hickory, NC

KEDPLASMA Hickory, NC

Reviews Summary

Most reviews praise the friendly, efficient staff and positive donation experiences, particularly noting skilled technicians and quick service. However, negative feedback highlights inconsistent customer service, unprofessional behavior, and issues with appointment management, equipment, or eligibility determinations. Several donors reported being turned away unfairly or experiencing poor treatment, while others had painful or unsafe procedures. The overall sentiment is mixed, with strong loyalty from satisfied regulars but significant frustration from those who encountered problems.

About This Listing

Ages 18-0
You have to make an appointment first, by phone or possibly on their website. First time donors are required to pass examinations.

Who Can Donate?

Likely aged between 18 and 65 (some centers may allow up to 69 or older)
Weigh at least 110 pounds (requirements may vary slightly)
In general good health, as determined by a health screening
No tattoos, piercings, or permanent makeup within the past 4–12 months (timeframes may vary)
Provide a valid government-issued photo ID
Provide proof of a permanent address (requirements may differ)

*Note: Eligibility criteria may vary by center. Check with your local facility for specifics.*

First-Time Donors

First-time donors will typically need to complete a medical history questionnaire and undergo a brief physical exam, which may include vital signs and blood tests. Some individuals may be temporarily or permanently deferred from donating based on health or other factors.

Common Reasons for Deferral:

Temporary Recent tattoo or piercing, recent pregnancy, certain medications (e.g., antibiotics), or recent illness
Permanent Certain chronic health conditions, such as Hepatitis or HIV

*Note: Deferral policies vary by center. Confirm with your local facility.*

What to Bring

Valid photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport, or military ID)
Proof of Social Security Number (e.g., Social Security card or tax document)
Proof of current address (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement, or official mail dated within the last 60 days)

*Note: Documentation requirements may differ by center.*

Preparing for Your Donation

Drink plenty of water or caffeine-free fluids (e.g., 4–6 glasses) 2–3 hours before donating
Eat a balanced, iron-rich meal within a few hours of your visit
Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours prior
Refrain from smoking 2–3 hours before your appointment
Avoid intense exercise for at least an hour before donating
Get adequate sleep the night before
Bring a list of any medications you’re currently taking
Postpone your visit if you’re feeling unwell

*Note: Preparation guidelines may vary by center.*

How to Get Started

Many centers allow walk-ins, but some may require appointments. Check with your local center.

Other Helpful Info

First visits may take around 1.5–2.5 hours due to the screening process
Repeat donations typically take 45–90 minutes
You may donate plasma up to twice per week, with at least 48 hours between donations (frequency may vary)
Some centers may offer a refer-a-friend program with incentives
Compensation, if offered, may be provided via cash, prepaid debit cards, or other methods (varies by center)

*Note: Policies, compensation, and procedures differ by center. Contact your local facility for details.*

Features

Ages 18-0
You have to make an appointment first, by phone or possibly on their website. First time donors are required to pass examinations.

Contact Information

Address

1040 2nd St NE

Hickory, North Carolina 28601

Customer Reviews

Trash. Tried 3 times and first time I was taken right before 7 and turned away because I wasn't hydrated enough, then came another time and was turned away because we didn't have an appointment and it was close to 7, then we made appointments for another day for 6:30 and I made one for 6:45 and then when we got there, they were full and there open flag was still out, but we got turned away because they said they weren't taking anyone after 6 even though we watched them do so, then proceeded to say they don'

I recently donated 6/12/25. Staff was nice and professional. However I told them I fainted in past after donation. Even though I was ok they did not check my blood pressure before leaving. After I left almost passed out. And I am not sure what happened to my post instructions so when I made an account I cannot see my cholesterol, iron etc. Have called customer service multiple times with no help. Guess I will never know results.

I didn't have an appointment but per the website they take walk ins. I was informed that they would let me donate even though I didn't have an appointment. When I said that I wanted to donate platelets I was told that I would have to make an appointment and that they couldn't do it. There was only one person donating but they couldn't let me donate platelets. They were rude and unprofessional at best. Find another way of donating don't go here.

Some staff are polite, some are tyrants. They use questionable devices to determine your eligibility to donate. You'll be lucky if they decide to treat you like a human.

After donating blood when the Big Red Bus came to my workplace, I received a call asking if I would be willing to come in and donate platelets. I have been doing regularly for about four month now, and the staff is always friendly, attentive, and helpful in making each experience as comfortable as possible.

Staff is friendly and efficient. In and out in about 30min. Feels good to help the community.

I've given at oneblood for four years, on several occasions they have went back and forth with my iron levels saying they are off giving recommendations for me to fix the issue. I went in today to give getting a wrong reading on my weight and iron levels as well. All at the Hickory facility. Information they have given has been misleading due to the fact I've taken supplements for years.ive been nothing but mistreated by them with their lies and disrespect.

My first experience with OneBlood was to donate via appointment at their Big Red Bus. When the bus did not show, I was able to find a nurse wandering around who told me that the bus was late. I waited an hour, donated. I was not impressed with the cleanliness, but I lived. My second experience was via appointment at Planet Fitness. They told me and the 3 others scheduled for that time that we would just have to wait. I left. My third experience was a drive to a nearby town two days ago with appointment. I

I would give no stars if possible. I went n donated on Saturday n was told I would get a certain amount n they then tell u three customer service that they refuse to honor what their employees say to the donors. I will never waste my time goin threw them again they received my last donation on saturday6/15/24 I've been told to call their customer care number n when I call I get sent straight to voicemail n no one answers or try?s to get back to me

Knowledgeable technicians with excellent skills at drawing blood. They had me in and out in near minutes with only a polka dot in my elbow crease to show I was even there.

Really nice people. Took care of me when I was wanting give doubles but still let me donate. Payton was outstanding! She is very nice and sweet and down to earth. She did a really good job by making me feel comfortable. Hope to see these people again sometime.

Needs to hire better phlebotomist!!!!The techincan irritated the nerve in my arm. It has been 5 days and the pain has just got worse. Whenever he went to take my blood instead of reinserting the needle he dug around in my arm for at least 30 seconds before hitting a vein, while in the process I have started to faint. Not to mention after I left the facility I passed out almost FOUR times before going to bed. My blood was taken at 1 p.m. after I immediately increased my fluids majorly, because I thought I mi

I have given blood many times with one blood and usually have a good experience. Today I gave blood and I told the girl where they usually stick, but she didnt like that spot so she went for a vein that she thought best. Ok fine. But it kept rolling and she had an attitude that she had to keep fixing it .

Have become an every two week regular for platelets. I have really enjoyed Kyle, Bonnie and Brianna. They are amazing at their job and make a person feel very comfortable.?? I give back because people gave for my son#MaysonStrong??

This place is terrible. 3 trips now, and they are of no help. The website is wrong, and the people that run it are extremely unprofessional. Stay away. It also looks like you'd wake up without a kidney.

After I had to stand in the sun (80?F) for almost 30 minutes I got told I couldn't donate because my temperature was 99. If they would have took me on the bus on time we wouldn't have had this problem now I have wasted time and gas. My appointment time was 2:15 I got here about 2:10 they didn't take my temperature until 2:37.

Great friendly staff , will put you at ease if its your first time donatiing or may be a lil scared of needle !

Woman at the front desk was very, very rude ! Will never go back there!!

Excellent experience. Great staff. Fast service. I look forward to future visits.

I have been there several times the staff is wonderful!!??

Kyle is an exceptional customer service person

Great experience giving blood!

Frequently Asked Questions

What disqualifies you from donating plasma?

Plasma donors can get disqualified for a list of different reasons, which may result in a temporary or a permanent deferral. Common reasons people get a temporary disqualification may include being dehydrated, taking certain medications, getting a tattoo within the last 4 months, or being pregnant in the last 6 months.

How can you donate plasma quickly?

Donating plasma can get busy with donors and long waiting times. To donate plasma faster, choose a plasma center that allows you to book an appointment online and take your health screening questionnaire remotely from home. Additionally, call your local plasma center and ask for the least busy days and times of the week.

Can you workout after donating plasma?

Most phlebotomists recommend that you take a day off from working out or lifting weights on the same day as your plasma donation. Instead, take the day to rest, eat well, and drink plenty of water after your donation.

How often can I donate plasma?

Plasma donors are legally capped at two donations per week or 7-day period, with at least 48 hours in between each donation.

What should I eat before donating plasma?

Before your plasma donation, it's recommended that you drink plenty of water (4-6 eight-ounce glasses), and eat a meal with high protein and iron content. Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking on the same day as your donation.