Name of the Procedure:

Compatibility test each unit; antiglobulin technique, also known as the Coombs test.

Summary

This is a blood compatibility test that detects antibodies in the blood that might cause a reaction to a transfused unit of blood. It ensures that the recipient’s immune system will not attack the donor blood cells.

Purpose

The test is used to ensure that donated blood is safe for a specific patient, reducing the risk of transfusion reactions. It aims to prevent complications such as hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells), which can occur if the recipient's immune system attacks the donor blood.

Indications

• Blood transfusion preparation
• History of transfusion reactions
• Patients with autoimmune disorders
• Monitoring pregnancy for Rh incompatibility

Preparation

• No special preparation is usually required.
• Sometimes, blood samples from both the donor and recipient are needed.
• Inform your doctor about any medications or history of transfusion reactions.

Procedure Description

1. A blood sample is drawn from the patient.
2. The donor blood and recipient blood are mixed with antiglobulin serum in a lab.
3. The mixture is examined for agglutination (clumping), which indicates incompatibility.
4. If agglutination occurs, the donor blood will not be used for the patient.

Duration

The test typically takes about 30-60 minutes.

Setting

Performed in a laboratory setting within a hospital or blood bank.

Personnel

• Medical Laboratory Technologist
• Hematologist or Pathologist may review complex cases

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risks: primarily relate to blood draw (bruising, infection at injection site)
• Rare: inaccurate results leading to adverse transfusion reactions

Benefits

• Ensures donor blood is safe and compatible
• Reduces risk of transfusion reactions
• Provides rapid results, usually within an hour

Recovery

• No special post-procedure care is needed.
• Resume normal activities immediately after.

Alternatives

• Other cross-matching tests like gel cards and solid-phase testing.
• Each alternative has its own pros and cons regarding sensitivity and speed.

Patient Experience

• Patient might feel a brief needle prick during blood sample collection.
• No discomfort during the actual laboratory testing.
• Results are typically communicated swiftly, often within an hour.

Pain management and comfort measures: Generally not needed since the procedure involves only a routine blood draw.