Blood Types Study Guide

What do RBC antigens and plasma antibodies determine?

Blood type

In a centrifuge, where do plasma, the buffy coat, and RBCs layer?

Top: Plasma,

Middle: Buffy coat (WBCs + platelets), Bottom: RBCs

What does the Rh factor indicate?

The presence or absence of a protein on RBCs.

What is the outcome if Rh is present?

The blood type is Rh positive.

What is the outcome if Rh is absent?

The blood type is Rh negative.

Who can Rh positive individuals receive blood from?

They can receive from Rh positive or Rh negative donors.

Who can Rh negative individuals receive blood from?

They can receive only from Rh negative donors.

What is the significance of testing and crossmatching before transfusions?

To ensure compatibility and prevent transfusion reactions.

What blood type is known as the universal donor?

O- (O negative).

What blood type is known as the universal receiver?

AB+ (AB positive).

What happens during a transfusion reaction?

Possibilities include hemolysis, clotting, shock, and death.

What is the mnemonic for remembering that O has zero antigens?

O = 'Zero' antigens.

What does AB blood type suggest regarding blood donations?

AB blood has antigens for all and can receive from any blood type.

How should blood transfusions be checked?

Always double-check to avoid compatibility errors.

How does the presence of antigens affect blood compatibility?

Antigens must match between donor and recipient to prevent reactions.

What is the main role of antibodies in the blood?

To identify and neutralize foreign antigens.

What is the result of giving the wrong blood type?

It might lead to serious reactions like hemolysis and shock.

Why is O blood called 'outgoing'?

Because it can donate to all blood types.

How do anti-A antibodies react to type A blood?

They attack type A blood, causing a reaction.

How can you remember the Rh factor rule?

• can take - but - can't take +.

What are the components of the blood praiseworthy?

Bright red blood, plasma, buffy coat, and RBCs.

What is buffy coat composed of?

White blood cells (WBCs) and platelets.

What do antigens serve as in the blood system?

Name tags that identify blood types.

What do antibodies act as in the blood system?

Security guards against incompatible blood.

Why is the term 'shock' associated with blood transfusion reactions?

It indicates severe distress in the body due to immune response.

What essential lab equipment separates blood components?

Centrifuge.

How do we use a centrifuge in blood analysis?

To separate plasma, buffy coat, and RBCs based on density.

What is hemolysis in the context of blood transfusions?

Destruction of red blood cells due to incompatible transfusions.

Describe the function of plasma in blood.

Plasma acts as a transport medium for blood cells and nutrients.

What does the presence of antigens signify on red blood cells?

It determines an individual's blood type.

What is the significance of O- blood type for emergency transfusions?

It can be safely given to any patient regardless of blood type.

What is the implication of having a blood type like A?

It has A antigens and B antibodies.

When do transfusion reactions typically occur?

They occur when incompatible blood is transfused.

What does 'blood type' refer to specifically?

The classification based on the presence or absence of antigens.

How is the compatibility of blood types typically determined?

By matching donor antigens with recipient antibodies.

What happens to blood cells during a hemolytic transfusion reaction?

They are destroyed by the recipient's immune system.

Who should be consulted before selecting a blood donor?

A medical professional or blood transfusion specialist.

Why must blood types be compatible for transfusions?

To prevent adverse immune reactions.

What is the importance of a thorough transfusion history?

To prevent prior reaction complications and identify suitable donors.

What are potential symptoms of transfusion reactions?

Fever, chills, back pain, and skin reactions.

How does one determine their blood type?

Through blood tests that identify specific antigens.

What is a common precaution prior to blood transfusions?

Perform crossmatching tests.

What is the primary function of red blood cells?

To carry oxygen throughout the body.

Why is the Rh factor important in pregnancy?

It can cause complications if the mother is Rh negative and the baby is Rh positive.

What do we call the white blood cells found in the buffy coat?

Leukocytes.

What should be done in case of a suspected transfusion reaction?

Stop the transfusion immediately and report to a healthcare provider.

What statement can be made about someone with AB blood type?

They can receive blood from any type.

What can blood type O- donate to without risk?

It can donate to any blood type safely.

What blood type is represented by someone who has A antigens and B antibodies?

Type A blood.

Why is matching blood types essential in transfusions?

To avoid life-threatening reactions.

What are the roles of platelets in blood?

To aid in clotting and prevent bleeding.

Which blood group has A, B, and Rh antigens?

AB+ blood type.

What is the key takeaway for handling blood transfusions?

Always verify blood type compatibility before proceeding.

How do health professionals ensure safe transfusions?

Through rigorous testing and proper verification processes.

What happens during the process of agglutination?

Red blood cells clump together due to antibody-antigen reactions.

What unique feature does AB+ blood possess as a donor?

It can give blood to any recipient but cannot receive from anyone except itself.

Which blood type can only donate to itself?

AB+.

What characteristic allows O- individuals to be universal donors?

They lack A and B antigens.

What clinical observation should raise suspicion of a transfusion reaction?

Changes in vital signs after transfusion begins.