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Test Code RCLR RBC

Methodology

Tube Testing or Gel System

This test is performed to determine the compatibility of blood prior to transfusion. TS “Type and Screen” is performed, and a crossmatch is performed for each unit of packed cells ordered for possible transfusion. If the antibody screen is positive, ABID “Antibody Identification, Erythrocyte” is performed and donor blood units are screened to provide antigen-negative blood (at an additional charge). Crossmatched blood is routinely released after 72 hours if not used. A new patient specimen is required for retesting every 3 days.

 

Note: See “Blood Banking (Transfusion Medicine)—Blood Transfusion Policies and Standard Practices” in Special Instructions for additional information.

Specimen Requirements

 Submit only 1 of the following specimens:

 

PREFERRED:

 

Pink-Top Tube

Container/Tube: Pink-top (EDTA tube) - Plain, red-top tube or serum gel tube is not acceptable.

Specimen Volume: 6mL of whole blood (minimum volume: Contact Blood Bank)

Collection Instructions: Forward promptly in original tube(s).

 

Alternate:

 

Lavender-Top Tube

Container/Tube: Lavender-top (EDTA) tube(s)-Plain, red-top tube or serum gel tube is not acceptable.

Specimen Volume: 3mL or 4mL of whole blood (minimum volume: Contact Blood Bank)

Collection Instructions: Forward promptly in original tube(s).

 

Unacceptable:

  1. Hemolyzed Specimens
  2. Mislabeled or unlabeled Specimens
  3. Illegible specimen labels - NO GEL PENS

 

NOTE:

  1. Include report of diagnosis and history of transfusions, pregnancy, and drug therapy.
  2. Specimen being drawn may result in a possible transfusion. Specimen must be completely labeled as follows. 
  3. Identify patient by asking them to state their name. If patient cannot identify himself or herself, find someone who can positively identify patient.
  4. When labeling Blood Bank pre-transfusion specimens, use Mobilab or a two person patient identification verification. Include both the collector's mnemonics and the verifier's mnemonic on the specimen label.
  5. Label specimen as follows prior to leaving patient’s side. Using a ballpoint pen (no gel).
  • Patient’s full name
  • Patient’s birthdate
  • Date and time of draw
  • Collector's mnemonic
  • Verifier's mnemonic - not required if using Mobilab

Send labeled specimen to the laboratory.

* For 14 day specimens include a completed Outpatient/Pre-Admit Transfusion Medicine Identification (Blood Product) Form.

 

Forms:

  1. Outpatient/Pre-Admission Transfusion Medicine Identification Form
  2. See "Requisitions" in Special Instructions for a copy of the form.
  3. Include - 
    • Patient’s full name
    • Patient’s birthdate
    • Date and time of draw
    • Collector's mneimonic
    • Verifier's mnemonic - not required if using Mobilab
    • Transfusion History

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday

Reference Values

Compatible

Critical value (automatic call-back): blood product NOT available for requested crossmatch due to:

1. ABO/Rh discrepancy

2. Positive antibody screen or direct Coombs

3. Blood component not in stock

Performing Laboratory

Logan Health Medical Center Laboratory

Test Classification and CPT Coding

86850-Antibody screen

86900-ABO

86901-Rh

86870-Antibody identification (if appropriate)

86903-Antigen identification per blood unit screened (if appropriate)

86920-Crossmatch, immediate spin (if appropriate)

86922-Crossmatch, antiglobulin (if appropriate)

Specimen Transport Temperature

Refrigerate:

2 to 8 C

Special Instructions