This is a pre transfusion and antenatal screening test.  A blood sample is tested to determine a patients ABO and Rhesus group and to demonstrate the presence of clinically significant alloantibodies that are capable of caused haemolytic transfusion reactions or haemolytic disease of the foetus/newborn.

If an antibody is detected the laboratory will complete further investigations to determine the antibody identification.

Transfusion or pregnancy may stimulate antibody production against red cell antigens.  This is the reason why samples for red cell provision are only valid for 72 hours and the reason for antenatal testing during pregnancy.

The laboratory operates a confirmed group protocol which means that group specific blood products will only be issued upon testing of two samples taken by separate venepuncture. Historical samples count towards this.

Sample type:  Blood

Sample requirements: 

 

7.5ml EDTA sample for adult patients

1.2ml EDTA sample for paediatric patients

- We understand that a full sample cannot always be obtained.  The laboratory will always try to test any sample but in some cases it may be necessary to request a new sample if the volume is insufficient for the test requested.  In such cases the requestor will be informed immediately.

In some cases, it may be necessary to request further samples in order to complete antibody investigations.  The laboratory will contact the requestor immediately if this is the case.

Ensure that sample tube expiry is checked prior to venepuncture.

Sample must be hand labelled and contain the following information:

  • Hospital number
  • Forename
  • Surname
  • Date of Birth
  • Patient location
  • Date and time of collection
  • Signature of collector

The request card must contain the following:

  • Hospital number
  • Forename
  • Surname
  • Date of birth
  • Sex
  • Patient location
  • Date and time of collection
  • Requesting Practitioner Signature (including medical officer/Midwives)
  • Name and signature of person taking sample (The name and signature should be completed in the box stating Patient ID checked and confirmed)

To minimise the risk of transcription error addressograph labels are encouraged to be used on the request card.

​​​​​​​The request card should also be used to detail if the patient has any special requirements for transfusion, for example: Irradiated products

In addition for Antenatal requests (Green Antenatal blood form) please include:

  • Gravida
  • EDD
  • Date and dose or any recent anti-D prophylaxis

 

IMPORTANT: The Trust operates a zero tolerance policy.  Failure to observe the requirements for sample and request card labelling will result sample rejection and a repeat requested.

Sample validity: 72 hours at 2-8oC. Samples should be sent to the laboratory immediately.  Improper storage of samples can lead to potential sample deterioration. Any samples which arrive in the laboratory 12 hours or more after venepuncture will not be tested.

 

Turnaround time: Within 24 hours.