Which test is used to assess blood compatibility before a procedure?

Which test is used to assess blood compatibility before a procedure?

• A. Hematocrit
• B. Urinalysis
• C. Type and cross match
• D. EKG

Answer: (C)

Before a transfusion, ensuring compatibility between donor and recipient is essential to prevent a transfusion reaction. The test that does this is the type and crossmatch: the “type” identifies the recipient’s ABO and Rh status, and the “crossmatch” mixes the recipient’s serum with donor red cells to detect any antibodies that would cause agglutination or hemolysis. If the results show compatibility, the transfusion can proceed safely; if not, a different donor unit is needed. Other commonly ordered tests serve different purposes. Hematocrit measures the proportion of red blood cells in the blood and assesses anemia or hydration, not compatibility. Urinalysis checks kidney function, infection, or other urinary issues. An EKG records the heart’s electrical activity and helps detect rhythm problems.

Before a transfusion, ensuring compatibility between donor and recipient is essential to prevent a transfusion reaction. The test that does this is the type and crossmatch: the “type” identifies the recipient’s ABO and Rh status, and the “crossmatch” mixes the recipient’s serum with donor red cells to detect any antibodies that would cause agglutination or hemolysis. If the results show compatibility, the transfusion can proceed safely; if not, a different donor unit is needed.

Other commonly ordered tests serve different purposes. Hematocrit measures the proportion of red blood cells in the blood and assesses anemia or hydration, not compatibility. Urinalysis checks kidney function, infection, or other urinary issues. An EKG records the heart’s electrical activity and helps detect rhythm problems.