blood transfusions

Question 1

name the antibody testing techniques

Answer 1

Forward Typing: Detects A and B antigens on RBCs using anti-A and anti-B reagents.

Reverse Typing: Detects naturally occurring antibodies in plasma by testing against known A and B red cells.

Rh (D) Typing: Determines if Rh antigen (D) is present (Rh-positive) or absent (Rh-negative).

Antibody Screening: Checks for unexpected antibodies that may react with transfused blood (e.g., anti-D, anti-K).

Question 2

when to use O- blood

Answer 2

Emergency (Unknown Blood Type): O Negative is the universal donor for red cells.

Pregnant Women and Neonates: To prevent Rh sensitization.

Patients with Antibodies: When crossmatching is difficult.

Question 3

category of transfusion reactions

Answer 3

immune-mediated
non-immune mediated

Question 4

name the immediate reactions and how theyre managed

Answer 4

haemolytic (ABO mismatch) - stop transfusion + IV fluids + diuretics

febrile - non-haemolytic - antipyretics to reduce fever

allergic - antihistamines

anaphalactic - epinephrine + steroids

TRALI (lung injury) - oxygen and supportive care

Question 5

delayed reactions and management

Answer 5

delayed haemolytic - monitor + supportive care

iron overload - iron chelation

Question 6

name the types of blood products and when theyre used

Answer 6

Red Blood Cells (RBCs)
Indications: Severe anemia, blood loss, oxygen delivery.

Platelets
Indications: Low platelets (e.g., chemotherapy, bleeding disorders).

Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP)
Indications: Clotting factor deficiencies, liver disease, DIC.

Cryoprecipitate
Indications: Fibrinogen deficiency, hemophilia, von Willebrand disease.